Thirty-eight organised labour unions, professional associations, and worker groups in the Nkwanta South Municipality have given government 30 days to take decisive action to end the area’s recurring conflict, or face a total shutdown of public and essential services.
At a press conference, the groups warned that workers will withdraw their services if concrete progress is not seen within a month of government receiving their petition.
Spokesperson Edward Yeboah described the conflict as a long-running crisis that has claimed lives, destroyed property, displaced families, and crippled public services.
“Recent incidents have further worsened insecurity, resulting in deaths and injuries, repeated school closures, and the relocation of teachers and other professionals who fear for their safety,” he said.
While acknowledging government efforts so far, Mr. Yeboah said the situation now demands firmer and more coordinated intervention.
The unions said the conflict is affecting every aspect of life in Nkwanta South. They cited persistent threats to life, especially for students, women, and workers, the breakdown of schooling and business activity, and unsafe conditions for public sector staff.
Their petition referenced over 353 households and 764 individuals displaced as of February 2026. The unions added that the unrest has caused psychological trauma, social instability, and stalled development, with resources repeatedly diverted to security operations instead of local projects.
The groups are demanding that government:
1. Establish a permanent conflict-resolution framework involving traditional authorities, community leaders, youth groups, and security agencies.
2. Strengthen security presence and intelligence to prevent further violence and protect lives and property.
3. Facilitate a lasting settlement through dialogue, mediation, and lawful processes.
4. Roll out a long-term peacebuilding and social cohesion programme for Nkwanta and surrounding communities.
5. Consider permanent security infrastructure in the municipality to ensure sustained stability.
Residents at the press event appealed for a review of the current 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. curfew, saying it is hurting livelihoods. Some traders said evening hours are critical for sales and family survival, with poverty worsening amid the unrest.
Persons with disabilities also appealed for support, noting they face heightened risk and economic barriers during periods of conflict.
The unions cautioned that the deteriorating security situation is making it unsafe for workers to perform their duties.
“If government fails to demonstrate concrete progress within 30 days of receiving the petition, organised labour in Nkwanta South will embark on a total withdrawal of services until conditions improve,” Mr. Yeboah warned.
The groups said without a credible pathway to peace, the municipality risks further loss of life, deeper displacement, and the collapse of already strained public services.