The Member of Parliament for Zebilla, Cletus Avoka, has dismissed calls for a state of emergency in Bawku and surrounding areas despite rising tensions following recent violent incidents.
The situation in Bawku escalated after a rival chief returned to the area, leading to clashes and an ambush that tragically left eight travellers dead. In response, security forces have intensified their presence in affected areas to curb further violence.
To address the unrest, the government imposed a 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. curfew on Bawku and its environs on Monday, October 28.
Speaking to Citi News, Cletus Avoka cautioned against declaring a state of emergency, arguing that such a measure would significantly impact campaign activities ahead of the December elections.
“It has not reached that stage for a state of emergency. You are aware that we are in an election year. Maybe one and a half months or even less than that, we will be having elections. A state of emergency means that people do not have their human rights vested in them to do what they want.
“They may not have rallies, they may not have meetings together, they may not travel far. They may not do certain things. And therefore, they have lost their freedom.
“Therefore, they may not be able to campaign and then have the elections. I do not think that the situation has reached a level where the government can declare a state of emergency.