The Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to use his platform at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to spotlight urgent domestic issues, including the plight of Ghanaian refugees in Côte d’Ivoire, the conflict in Bawku, and the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining (galamsey).
According to Professor Isaac Boadi, Executive Secretary of IERPP, the United Nations promotes peace and stability among member states and plays a key role in fostering harmony among coexisting tribes. As such, the group is urging the President to treat these challenges as urgent and advocate for the protection and welfare of affected citizens.
“As you prepare for the United Nations General Assembly, since you’re in New York City, the Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) would like to use this opportunity to remind you of the myriad of challenges facing us back home. The UN promotes peace, stability and prosperity amongst member countries. It also sees to it that there’s peaceful coexistence amongst tribes in member countries,” the statement read.
IERPP further noted that although Ghana is recognised as a democratic country, many citizens do not enjoy the peace and security that democracy promises. The group claimed that over 10,000 people have fled the country in search of safety in Côte d’Ivoire due to violent conflict in Gbenyiri, and remain unable to return home.
“Mr President, Ghana, though a democratic country, is challenged when it comes to the peace its citizens must enjoy. We cannot talk about a peaceful country without having peace in your own region, Savannah. The Gbenyiri conflict has taken more lives than have been officially reported, according to the displaced persons living outside Savannah. About 13,000 Ghanaians fled from Savannah to seek shelter in Côte d’Ivoire. For the first time in our history, some Ghanaians, your own kinsmen, have become refugees in other lands,” the statement added.
The group also highlighted that Burkina Faso has become a safe haven for some refugees, and criticized the government’s response to the crisis.
“IERPP has observed that very little is being done by your administration to resolve the situation so that these refugees can return home safely. What is the essence of the UNGA when your own people are wandering in other people’s lands? Enough of the lofty and flowery speeches. Cut the grandiloquent rhetoric and find solutions to the crisis back at home. Control your home region, bring peace to the people.”
On the issue of Bawku, the group expressed disappointment over unfulfilled promises to resolve the conflict, citing continued restrictions on movement and lack of progress.
“Bawku is still not peaceful. There are still restrictions on the movement of people in the area. You were categorical in your promise to resolve the conflict. You gave timelines which have since elapsed. So far, not so good.”
The IERPP also raised alarm over the impact of galamsey, stating that illegal mining continues to destroy water bodies and introduce hazardous chemicals into rivers and lakes, threatening public health.
“We are all at risk from the deadly effects of illegal mining activities. You made a profound promise to us prior to the 2024 elections. You pledged to stop galamsey. The opposite is what we’re witnessing.”
In a final appeal, the group urged President Mahama to prioritize these issues during his engagements at UNGA:
“Mr President, pay particular attention to galamsey. Pay particular attention to Bawku. Pay attention to the refugee crisis that the conflict in Gbenyiri has created. You are the President of the Republic of Ghana, and it is your responsibility to bring peace and stability to the land.”
“Whilst you are in New York, let these worrying situations in your region and the Ghanaian citizens who have turned refugees occupy your thoughts. Let galamsey dominate your mind as well.”
