An aspirant parliamentary candidate for the Bawku Central Constituency, Baako Yussif, has appealed to the Government of Ghana to strictly uphold constitutional principles in the ongoing mediation efforts surrounding the long-standing Bawku matter.
In a press statement issued on December 20, 2025, Baako Yussif emphasized the importance of clearly distinguishing between mediation and arbitration under Ghana’s legal framework. According to him, mediation is intended to be a facilitated dialogue process aimed at helping parties reach a mutually acceptable understanding, not a mechanism for imposing binding decisions or sanctions on any group or individual .
He cautioned that mediators, including traditional authorities, do not possess the constitutional mandate to adjudicate disputes, order arrests, impose displacement, or restrict the movement of citizens without due process. Baako stressed that such actions, if undertaken outside the law, risk undermining citizens’ rights and eroding public confidence in democratic governance.
Referencing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, the aspirant candidate noted that all authority within the Republic must operate within clearly defined legal limits. He warned that any deviation from these principles, even if well-intentioned, could unintentionally harm innocent citizens and weaken the democratic foundations of the Fourth Republic.
Baako Yussif further urged the government to rely on sound legal advice where uncertainties exist, especially in sensitive national matters such as the Bawku conflict. He argued that Ghana’s history of political instability makes it imperative for leaders to proceed with caution, wisdom, and respect for constitutional governance rather than resorting to expedient or politically motivated actions.
The statement also raised concerns about the potential misuse of political, security, or traditional processes for personal or partisan interests. According to Baako, any perceived or actual abuse of authority has the potential to inflame tensions rather than foster peace and stability in already fragile communities.
He emphasized that claims of ownership, authority, or entitlement in any part of Ghana must always be subjected to due process and proven beyond reasonable doubt, as required by law. Failure to adhere to these standards, he warned, could set a dangerous precedent with far-reaching consequences for national cohesion and the rule of law.
In his call to action, Baako Yussif appealed to political leaders, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to exercise restraint, professionalism, and constitutional discipline, both in their actions and public communication. He reiterated that Ghana operates under a democratic system and must not allow any actions that resemble autocratic governance.
He concluded by calling on the people of Bawku to remain calm and continue their lawful daily activities in the pursuit of peace, development, and progress. Baako reaffirmed that the Constitution protects every Ghanaian and that no unlawful or unreasonable force should be tolerated anywhere in the country.
The aspirant candidate ended his statement with a strong reminder that sustainable peace can only be achieved through strict adherence to the Constitution, urging all stakeholders to “protect peace by protecting the Constitution”
