The Mamprugu Youth Association (MAYA) has responded strongly to remarks made by the Kusaug People’s Congress (KPC) regarding the conflict in Bawku.
Led by Reverend Professor Azumah, the KPC expressed concerns regarding the ongoing tension in Bawku, but MAYA has countered with objections to what it describes as divisive and unfounded assertions made by the KPC.
MAYA, while affirming respect for differing viewpoints, voiced concerns that the rhetoric used by KPC could further destabilize Bawku, a town with a history of ethnic and chieftaincy conflicts.
“The statements made by Rev. Professor Azumah were not only unfounded, contradictory, and inconsistent but also dangerously inciting and divisive,” the group stated, emphasizing its worry that this approach could incite violence rather than promote peace and unity.
MAYA’s response details what it claims are factual inaccuracies and a lack of historical acknowledgement in the KPC’s address.
The association asserts that the late Bawku Naaba Naa Tampuri Adam Zangbeo, a Mamprusi leader, was duly recognized by legal authorities and the Regional House of Chiefs until his death in 1981.
According to MAYA, historical records affirm that Mamprusis have longstanding ties to Bawku, and the association presented evidence to support these claims.
A key point of contention raised by MAYA was the KPC’s statement rejecting mediation and legal means for resolving issues in Bawku.
The association highlighted how, during past conflicts, Mamprusis pursued legal remedies rather than resorting to violence. “This is the way of civility, which seems to elude Rev. Azumah and his KPC,” MAYA stated.
In support of their historical claims, MAYA cited various sources, including Syme’s book, which names Mamprusi ancestors as the early chiefs of Bawku.
They contend that the book corroborates Mamprusi’s claims to Bawku through a lineage stretching back to the 17th century. Additionally, MAYA challenged the KPC to provide similar evidence of Kusasi lineage in the area.
Another point in the statement addressed KPC’s claims of majority control over local districts. MAYA disputed these assertions, listing historical records that show the founding of several key districts, including Bawku and Binduri, by Mamprusis or allied ethnic groups.
MAYA expressed its concern over what it sees as attempts by the KPC to dismiss the longstanding relationship between Mamprusis and Kusasis in Bawku. The association also emphasized its commitment to nonviolent resolutions and urged the government to increase security along critical transit routes, such as the Bolga-Bawku-Poulimakoum road, where recent attacks have escalated.
In closing, MAYA reaffirmed its dedication to pursuing peaceful and lawful solutions and called on national leaders to ensure that all groups respect these principles, promoting stability and unity within Bawku and the surrounding region.
