President John Dramani Mahama has underscored his administration’s renewed focus on national peace, security preparedness, and comprehensive constitutional reforms during a courtesy call by the National Peace Council Governing Board at the Jubilee House on Wednesday.
Welcoming the delegation, President Mahama commended the Peace Council for its continued role in safeguarding Ghana’s stability. He recalled his involvement in establishing the Council during his tenure as Vice President, noting that its work has since become a model across Africa.
“Since 2011, the Peace Council has proven itself as a central pillar of our peace architecture. Many countries study what we have built and are shaping their own institutions based on our example,” he said.
Rising Conflicts and Pressure on Security Services
The President expressed concern about the increasing number of conflict flashpoints in the country, particularly chieftaincy and land disputes that continue to drain security resources.
“Traditional areas that were peaceful for decades suddenly fall into conflict after succession disputes arise. This rising intolerance is becoming a major headache for government,” he cautioned.
He disclosed that heavy security deployments remain in places such as Sampa, Nkwanta, Bawku, and parts of the Savannah Region, stressing that this places immense pressure on the nation’s security forces.
Ghana’s Religious Harmony Still a Blessing
Despite rising localized conflicts, President Mahama emphasized that Ghana’s religious coexistence remains strong.
“One of the beauties of Ghana is that our religious communities live together peacefully. Our conflicts do not come from religion but from chieftaincy and land issues,” he noted.
He commended the Peace Council for facilitating the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding on faith-based schools, describing it as “a balanced and clear framework that reflects our diversity.”
Strengthening Accountability and Anti-Corruption Measures
The President reiterated his commitment to transparent governance and the fight against corruption.
“We must be accountable ourselves. The people of Ghana will not forgive us if we allow impunity to fester,” he said.
He urged the Office of the Special Prosecutor to step up investigations, stressing:
“It is premature to call for the closure of the OSP. What the public wants is faster results, not abandonment.”
Security Preparedness Amid Sahel Instability
President Mahama highlighted growing threats from extremist activities in the Sahel and their implications for Ghana’s national security.
“We are not immune to what is happening in the Sahel. It is not a question of if, but when. That is why we must prepare,” he warned.
He revealed that government is retooling the security services with armored vehicles and advanced equipment for the Police, Air Force, and other agencies to strengthen readiness.
Bawku Mediation Report Scheduled for December 16
On the long-standing Bawku conflict, the President announced an important development in the mediation process led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
“Otumfuo will present the final mediation report on December 16. We will receive it together with the Peace Council, the House of Chiefs, and religious leaders,” he revealed.
Constitutional Review Report Due December 22
Turning to governance reforms, the President confirmed that the Constitutional Review Committee will submit its final report on December 22 after extensive consultations.
“Both major parties agreed that the 1992 Constitution has served us well, but the time has come for a review,” he stated.
He assured that the findings will be made public and will guide the next phase of national dialogue on constitutional amendments.
Commitment to National Stability and Reform
President Mahama concluded by emphasizing that sustainable peace requires economic inclusion, opportunity creation, and stronger national institutions.
“We must tackle the root causes of conflict, economic exclusion, unemployment, and social frustration. Our duty is to build a nation where every citizen feels included and hopeful,” he said.
The National Peace Council Governing Board, on its part, commended the President for his leadership and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening peacebuilding efforts across the country.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
