The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Nkwanta South, Hon. Joseph Awal Antwi, has made a passionate appeal for peace and dialogue in the municipality, emphasizing that sustainable development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of violence and division.
His call comes in the wake of renewed tensions in the municipality that have led to security concerns and government intervention. On Monday, July 7, 2025, a high-ranking delegation from the Ghana Armed Forces’ Southern Command, led by Brigadier General Paintsil, visited Nkwanta South to engage local stakeholders, including leaders of the conflicting factions, in a bid to de-escalate the situation and promote peace.
Brigadier General Paintsil, addressing the gathering, stressed that the military remains neutral in the conflict and is solely focused on restoring law and order to create a peaceful environment for all residents.
“We are not here to support any side. We are here to support peace,” he said. “We urge all parties to lay down arms and choose dialogue. Violence will only destroy what we are all trying to build.”
Hon. Joseph Awal Antwi, in a statement following the engagement, aligned with the military’s message and underscored the urgency of choosing conversation over confrontation.
“The surest path to peace is dialogue, not guns,” he said. “At this critical juncture in our municipality, we must rise above our differences and commit to peaceful coexistence. It is only through unity that we can realize the full potential of Nkwanta.”
He further emphasized the need for collaborative leadership, calling on traditional rulers, youth groups, religious leaders, and civil society organizations to actively participate in the peace-building process.
The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, who was also present at the peace dialogue, reiterated the government’s stance on ensuring safety for all citizens in the municipality. He confirmed that the earlier ban on festivals and large social gatherings within Nkwanta South township remains in force due to prevailing security concerns.
“We have not lifted the ban on festivals in the township,” he clarified. “However, communities can observe these cultural activities outside the township under peaceful and controlled conditions. We value our culture, but security must come first.”
He called on traditional leaders to play a central role in the peace process by mediating disputes and fostering reconciliation among their people. “Development can only happen in an atmosphere of peace,” the Regional Minister added. “It is in our collective interest to bring calm to Nkwanta and open the way for infrastructure, education, health, and economic growth.”
The visit by the military command forms part of broader efforts to stabilize Nkwanta South following a series of disturbances believed to have been fueled by unresolved community disputes. Isolated clashes and retaliatory acts have created a fragile security environment, prompting concerns among residents and stakeholders alike.
Security personnel, including soldiers and police officers, remain deployed in parts of the municipality to maintain order and prevent further escalation. Community leaders have also been encouraged to report suspicious activities and support security operations in real time.
Hon. Joseph Awal Antwi expressed gratitude to the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service for their commitment and professionalism in protecting lives and property. He reiterated that the Municipal Assembly is prepared to work with all groups—regardless of background or affiliation—who are ready to champion peace and mutual respect.
“We must not allow conflict to define who we are,” he stressed. “Let’s choose peace, let’s choose progress, and let’s remember that the guns must go silent if we want our children to have a better tomorrow.”
He urged all residents of Nkwanta South to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and engage in constructive dialogue as efforts continue to address the root causes of the conflict.
As Nkwanta South stands at a crossroads, the choice between peace and prolonged instability now lies in the hands of its leaders and residents. National and regional authorities are hopeful that with continued dialogue and mutual understanding, the municipality can return to the path of stability, development, and unity.
