Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Mahama, has criticized President Akufo-Addo’s previous remarks about Burkina Faso, which he believes have sparked diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
“We know what’s happening in Burkina Faso… Unfortunately, this government has created some tension because our president went and opened his mouth too wide,” Mahama remarked, referencing a video where Akufo-Addo discussed Burkina Faso in a manner Mahama described as “konkonsa” (gossip).
“You’re suffering, and then you’re gossiping about your neighbour… It’s not the best,” Mahama added, pointing out the inappropriateness of the comments.
While President Akufo-Addo has since issued an apology, Mahama insists that the damage has been done and that efforts must be made to repair the strained relationship.
“When government changes, we must talk to our neighbors… We must improve our relationship with Burkina Faso,” Mahama emphasized, underscoring the importance of diplomacy and collaboration, especially in the face of regional security challenges.
Mahama also stressed the need for greater cooperation in addressing the threat of terrorism in West Africa, particularly through initiatives like the Accra Initiative. “We must reach out and collaborate… If there’s fire in your neighbour’s house, help them put it off, or it’ll spread to your house,” he warned.
He further highlighted the urgency of resolving the ongoing crisis in Bawku, noting that unresolved conflicts can create vulnerabilities that terrorists might exploit.
“Bawku’s issues must be dealt with… It could be why they’re requesting a region, for better security focus,” he observed.
These comments from Mahama come in the wake of Akufo-Addo’s statement during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, where he claimed that Burkina Faso had “reached an arrangement” with the Russian paramilitary group Wagner.
According to Akufo-Addo, this arrangement allegedly involved the allocation of a mine in southern Burkina Faso as payment for Wagner’s services, a claim that the Burkinabe government has declined to comment on.
This statement has caused concern in Ghana, with Akufo-Addo noting that “Russian mercenaries are at the northern border” of Ghana, which is “particularly worrying.”
The situation reflects broader tensions in the region, where several countries, including Mali, have been accused of relying on Wagner’s services, despite official denials.
