Politics not a do or die affair - Zuarungu Chief

The chief of Zuarungu, Naba Bilea Namaal-Tinga Ceaser Afegera, has advised the people of Zuarungu to exercise caution while engaging in political activities, emphasizing that “politics is not a do-or-die affair.”

He made the call during the 23rd annual Ndaakoya festival, celebrated by the chiefs and people of Zuarungu in the Upper East Region.

This year’s theme was "The Role of All Indigenes and Social Partners for Peace, Security, and the Development of Zuarungu."

He highlighted that politics should not divide families and friends, noting, “There are instances where a husband and wife belong to different parties. Are we saying that during elections they should cease to share one mat?”

The chief expressed particular concern for the upcoming election, in which two prominent local figures from the NPP and NDC are competing for a parliamentary seat.

He urged both candidates to choose their words carefully, inspire voters, and avoid rhetoric that could incite violence.

The chief also reiterated the importance of Zuarungu's development, reminding the community of his previous appeal for a new market and a commercial car park, as well as the need for government assistance in preserving local lands from encroachment by neighboring districts.

“Our eastern neighbors in the Talensi District are infiltrating Zuarungu lands due to the government’s failure to demarcate the Bolga East District boundary,” he said, urging authorities to clarify district boundaries to prevent conflict.

Additionally, the chief stressed the need for urban planning to prevent uncontrolled development in Zuarungu, and he cautioned land officials against selling government lands to private developers.

He expressed his appreciation for the contributions of Zuarungu’s sons and daughters, especially those from Accra and Kumasi, as well as the support received from the government.

In his address, Upper East Regional Minister Hon. Hafiz Bin Salih praised the festival’s role in promoting social unity, adding that the theme reflects their commitment to maintaining peace during the election period.

He highlighted that most regional security issues stem from land and chieftaincy disputes and encouraged the community to adopt conflict resolution mechanisms rooted in their heritage.

The Regional Minister further emphasized the importance of vigilance against hate speech on social media, calling on political leaders to encourage respectful dialogue.

“Let us all be vigilant in identifying and condemning all forms of hate speech during this electioneering period,” he warned.

He concluded by urging stakeholders to understand the potentially destructive nature of the upcoming elections and to embrace a spirit of peace, which he called essential for expressing both political and religious rights.

He emphasized the vital role of social partners, including the media and civil society, in ensuring peace, security, and development in Zuarungu.