Kwaku Osei Koranteng Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team, has criticized former President John Dramani Mahama over his approach to the ongoing Bawku conflict.

According to KOKA, the former president should take concrete steps to find a lasting solution to the conflict rather than making speeches from Accra.

Speaking in an interview on Wontumi TV on April 14, 2025, KOKA took issue with Mahama's recent address at the 63rd graduation parade for cadets of the Ghana Armed Forces.

He argued that Mahama, who appeared at the event in a navy uniform, should have gone to Bawku himself to lead peace efforts instead of delivering speeches while the situation continues to escalate.

“Considering the amount of money we’ve spent on peacekeeping in Bawku, the place should have been a state-of-the-art city by now,” he said.

“As the president who contributed to this mess, you stand at the Military Academy and speak to the people of Bawku?

“Even his outfit is laughable to me. In the olden days, when chiefs dressed in such a manner, it meant they were leading their people into battle. So why would you dress like that and stand in Accra to talk, instead of going to Bawku?”

He added: “We should stop selling out our people cheaply for personal gains.”

Meanwhile, President Mahama has condemned the recent surge in violence in Bawku, emphasizing his confidence in the peace process led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to bring lasting stability to the area.

Speaking at the Ghana Military Academy’s Graduation Parade on April 11, 2025, President Mahama highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict, stating, “Nobody gains from this conflict and insecurities.”

He underscored the importance of the mediation process, saying, “We have triggered the Otumfuo mediation process, which has all the stakeholders to ensure a roadmap towards peace.”

Prior to his speech, the president had visited the place to ensure peaceful coexistence.

The recent violence in Bawku included a confrontation between police and youth, resulting in deaths and injuries, and the vandalism of MP Mahama Ayariga’s residence.