John Krugu, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Zebilla, has voiced serious concerns about the alleged misuse of the Ghana Card to identify individuals’ tribal affiliations amidst the escalating conflict in Bawku. Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, October 28, Mr. Krugu claimed that the card has been exploited in a manner that singles out individuals based on their tribal backgrounds, leading to tragic outcomes.
He highlighted the crisis facing the Presbyterian Hospital in Bawku, which has been overwhelmed by casualties. Attempts to transfer critically injured individuals to Bolgatanga for treatment have reportedly been blocked by road closures due to the ongoing violence. According to Mr. Krugu, the conflict has claimed lives beyond the main factions of Kusasis and Mamprusis, affecting those outside these groups.
Mr. Krugu described the situation as a “full-fledged war,” noting that Bawku’s small size has only intensified the violence, as rival factions are in close proximity. He explained that the ongoing clashes involve two rival chiefs—one marking 40 years on the throne and the other considered by some as illegitimate—resulting in violent confrontations among young men on both sides.
Mr. Krugu reported that individuals are being stopped along blocked roads and asked to produce their Ghana Cards to verify tribal affiliation, with fatal consequences for those targeted. He shared his awareness that people from outside the two main groups in the conflict have also been killed, underlining the far-reaching and complex impact of the violence.
The recent escalation saw eight travelers lose their lives on October 27 when gunmen blocked the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Gbimsi, opening fire on vehicles. Passengers caught in the blockade faced interrogation, with approximately eight fatalities and two vehicles set ablaze. The intensifying security crisis has prompted increased police and military deployment in Bawku and surrounding areas, as authorities work to curb further escalation and restore peace.
