One of our biggest national weaknesses is our tendency to be reactive rather than proactive when it comes to security. Time and again, we wait for incidents to escalate before taking action—often when it’s already too late. What’s even more alarming is the politicisation of our national security and intelligence systems.
When political interest begins to override professional judgment, the safety of every Ghanaian is compromised.
Let’s speak the truth – The Bawku conflict has long spilt beyond Bawku itself.
It’s now creeping into other areas where both tribes have settled, quietly spreading tension across multiple regions.
Yet we continue to treat it like a localised issue.
Too Much Theatre, Too Little Strategy – We often play to the gallery on national security issues—issuing press releases, showing force on camera, or downplaying threats.
But when the situation explodes, we’re caught flat-footed and helpless.
We’ve seen people openly brandishing weapons under the guise of traditional festivals, and somehow, it’s tolerated.
Where is the accountability? Where is the line between cultural celebration and armed provocation?
No Accountability for Disturbing Developments – To date, we’ve seen videos of armed men, warnings of tribal tension indirectly, and even possible external financing of violence—yet no clear public response from top security leaders. No explanations.
No reassurances. No arrests. And no visible roadmap to restore peace.
Meanwhile, look at what’s happening in our neighbouring countries.
Do we need a full-scale civil crisis before we take action?
Ghana Must Wake Up – This is Ghana—a proud, peaceful nation with a history of stability.
But that peace is being tested. And silence from leadership is not peacekeeping—it’s negligence.
We need:
Intelligence-led preventive strategies
Strong, apolitical national security leadership
Honest communication with the public
Swift action backed by data, not politics
Until then, we remain vulnerable—not because we lack strength, but because we lack seriousness.
By Eric Siaw Nartey
