Stephen Odoi-Larbi
9 November 2009
The Upper East Regional Caucus of Members of Parliament (MP) has warned perpetrators of violence in Bawku to be wary of their deeds, as the law will not spare anyone when caught.
"We wish to condemn, in no uncertain terms, the perpetrators of the latest violence in the area, and urge the security agencies to bring all guilty parties to book. There should not be consideration for political, ethnic or social status, as all must be treated equal before the law," noted the MPs in a statement issued in Accra, and signed by Mr. Dominic A. Azumah, Member of Parliament (MP) for Garu Tempane, on behalf of his colleagues.
The MPs expressed worry that the modest gains made in achieving peace in the area for some time now, had been eroded by the latest violence, which was said to have claimed three lives.
The statement however reminded all sons and daughters of the area, that they are one people, with strong traditional ties, and therefore, there was no need to resort to the use of arms as tools for settling any misunderstanding or grievances, and therefore urged the people to "report any breaches to the law enforcement agencies for the necessary and timely action."
It also reminded the two factions, Kusasis and Manprusis, to co-operate with the Bawku Inter-Ethnic Peace Committe, the security agencies, and other allied bodies in bringing lasting peace to the area.
"This is to ensure that the future of our children and economic life of the area is protected, and not destroyed through unnecessary violence, and the selfish interests of a few nation wreckers, who are enemies of peace and progress," the statement noted.
It further called on the people to change their mindsets of the area, since the continuous insecurity would drive away potential investors, development and the progress of the area, adding, "This cannot be allowed to continue in the interest of the people and the nation at large."
The MPs however commended the security agencies for their timely intervention, and urged them to further maintain peace in the volatile areas.
They also called for logistical support from the government to the security agencies, to enable them perform their duties effectively and efficiently.
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