Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has assured the people of Bawku that he will elevate the area to regional status if he is elected president in the December 7, 2024, elections.

The pledge by the former president, who is currently on a four-day tour of the Upper East Region, comes in response to an appeal by the Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II.

Mahama made this promise on Saturday, August 3, 2024, during a courtesy call at the Naba’s palace.

John Mahama stated that the call for Bawku to become a region is justified as the area meets all the necessary constitutional requirements.

"It is justified to create another region out of the Upper East Region to encompass the six constituencies in the Bawku area. Bawku Naba raised this with me, and I told him that, in principle, I think it is a good idea for two reasons. First, it would bring government closer to the people, which is a principal reason for creating regions and districts. Second, it addresses security concerns. Bawku is a special security zone due to the ongoing issues here. Therefore, creating a region could help focus efforts on resolving security problems more effectively.

"I don't think it's out of place because the criteria for creating a region are based on population, land size, and economic viability. If you look at the North East Region, the population in the Bawku area, covering the six constituencies, is likely larger than that of the North East. The land size is comparable to that of the North East. Economically, Bawku is a major trading and commercial center. It meets all three criteria.

There are, however, constitutional provisions that must be addressed. A petition needs to be submitted to the president, who will then establish a commission of inquiry. The commission will assess the petition, conduct a viability study, and ensure that creating a new region is feasible. Following this, a referendum will be held. You can be assured of my support. I believe it is justified to have a region in Bawku," John Mahama stated.

KA/AE