The Ministry of National Security has defended its monthly budget allocation of GH¢ 6,000,000 dedicated to addressing the ongoing conflict in Bawku.
The Ministry indicated that the budget is essential for managing security operations, particularly in light of the sharp escalation of inter-ethnic tensions in Bawku since 2021 that has resulted in the tragic loss of hundreds of lives and significant disruptions to economic activities.
To address these challenges, it established a special operation in February 2023 to maintain peace in Bawku and surrounding areas.
Responding to recent criticisms from the NDC Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, the Ministry explained that funds are allocated to cover various operational costs, including fuel for Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), food rations for personnel, special intelligence operations, and civil-military activities aimed at building societal cohesion.
And distributes these funds to participating security and intelligence agencies to support their logistics and personnel involved in the operations.
“It is unfortunate and mistaken for Hon. Ayariga, who, given his position as a Member of Parliament, ought to be better informed about the complexities and necessities of national security operations, to politicize same.”
“Such statements have the potential to disinform and misinform the citizens of Bawku, reignite tensions, and endanger the lives of the personnel of state security and intelligence agencies involved in the operations,” the Ministry said,
It stressed that while the funds could have been used to enhance Ghana’s resilience against broader security threats, the current situation in Bawku necessitated their allocation to maintain peace.
The Ministry stressed its commitment to safeguarding the overall peace and stability of the country.
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