24/07/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CLARIFICATION ON MISLEADING REPORTS REGARDING THE REGIONAL MINISTER’S REMARKS ON PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT BY JOYNEWS.
The Office of the North East Regional Minister has taken notice of a publication by Joy News headlined, “Government will not invest in conflict-prone communities – North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia warns.”
The above headline is misleading and does not accurately reflect the substance, context, or intent of the Hon. Regional Minister’s remarks during his recent monitoring tour of ongoing government projects in some parts of the North East Region.
For the avoidance of doubt, Hon. Ibrahim Tia never stated that Government would refuse to invest in conflict-prone communities or deny any community development because of conflict.
The Minister’s message was a passionate appeal for peace. His central point was that lasting peace and security are indispensable to sustainable development. He explained that persistent conflicts disrupt development, delay the ex*****on of projects, discourage public and private investment, and endanger both contractors and residents. Consequently, communities stand to benefit more rapidly and sustainably when peace prevails.
His remarks were therefore an encouragement to all stakeholders to work together in ending needless conflicts so that government interventions and development projects can be implemented smoothly across every district and community in the region.
It is regrettable that his statement has been interpreted to suggest that Government has adopted a policy of withholding development from conflict-affected communities. That is neither the position of the Government of Ghana nor that of the Hon. Regional Minister.
The Government remains firmly committed to ensuring equitable development across the North East Region. Indeed, many of the interventions currently being implemented by Government and its development partners are deliberately targeted at vulnerable and previously conflict-affected areas to promote stability, improve livelihoods, and consolidate peace.
The Office therefore urges the media and the general public to appreciate the full context of the Minister’s remarks and avoid interpretations that may create unnecessary anxiety or misinform the public.
The Hon. Regional Minister remains unwavering in his commitment to fostering peace, strengthening security, and championing inclusive development so that every district and every community in the North East Region can fully benefit from the Government’s development agenda.
“Without peace, development is delayed. With peace, development reaches every community.”
Signed
Rashid Asinga
PA. to the Regional Minister
