Frimpong-Manso Institute: ‘Stop playing politics with lives’ as Bawku conflict, galamsey, and fires worsen

The Frimpong-Manso Institute (FMI) calls on all Ghanaians to set aside political differences and urgently tackle the nation’s deepening crises, including the Bawku conflict, illegal mining locally known as galamsey, and recent fire outbreaks.

In an Easter message, the think tank urged leaders and citizens alike to embrace peace, responsibility, and reconciliation in the face of mounting national challenges.

“It is counter-productive to swap accusations or play political football with these grievous issues which claim precious lives, destroy livelihoods, displace thousands of people, and inflict a telling blow to Ghana’s image as a beacon of peace and stability.”

According to the Frimpong-Manso Institute, it emphasised the need for a root-cause analysis of these crises, particularly highlighting the long-running Bawku conflict and the devastating effects of galamsey.

“Even our traditional beliefs respect our water bodies by ensuring its sanctity and freshness for human consumption. And defiling it has real life negative consequences, how much more our Sovereign Lord,” the statement read.

Frimpong-Manso Institute further appealed to the ruling NDC government, the minority NPP, political parties, traditional and religious leaders, civil society, and the youth to genuinely identify themselves with moves to find solutions to these challenges.

In the spirit of Easter, the Institute urged Ghanaians to “crucify all actions and inactions that endanger life and property,” and to “resurrect the spirit of reconciliation, love and forgiveness which characterized and crowned Jesus’ life on earth,” quoting Ephesians 4:32 and Hebrews 12:14.

FMI believes such a united front will make the celebration of Easter more meaningful and impactful for the nation.

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