Security Analyst, Irbad Ibrahim has indicated that the role of Ghana’s security forces has undergone a major shift from merely maintaining peace to actively enforcing it. Speaking on Focus FM’s TeknoKrat show with host Khayrullah Issah Dobo, Mr. Ibrahim was reacting to recent acts of violence in the Northern Region and parts of Accra and Asanteman.
He said the evolving security threats have compelled the state to change its approach. “We have attacks as far as in Asanteman and some parts of Accra, so it means that it is not business as usual,” he stated.
“That is why when you look at the tone and pitch of the government’s recent communications, it’s clear that the mandate of the security forces particularly the army and police stationed in Bawku is shifting.” He explained that for a long time, the approach was passive and reactionary.
Security personnel were deployed to serve as buffers, breaking up violence only after it had erupted. Now, he says, the state is taking a more aggressive stance.
“Previously, it was about maintaining peace, but the state now wants to enforce peace. No matter how well-organized the tribal youth groups are, they haven’t undergone peacekeeping training or combat missions.
If the state decides to unleash its full force, no rugged youth group can match that.” Mr. Ibrahim advised the people of Bawku to take heed, stressing that the era of “wait-and-see” security is over.
“The element of enforcement should be the game-changer. If this strategy is sustained, we may see a relatively peaceful Bawku by the end of the year.
These disturbances are already spilling into other parts of the country, and Ghana simply does not have the appetite or capacity to handle more.” He also urged direct dialogue between the leaders of the factions in Bawku, specifically the Kusasi and Mamprusi chiefs emphasizing that peace will only come when traditional leaders set the tone for youth in their communities.
“We must go beyond third-party mediation. The Kusasi and Mamprusi chiefs must sit at the same table and send a strong message to their followers.
That’s the most effective path to resolution.”