Ghana's Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has expressed concerns that the country's growing drug-trafficking problem is threatening its national security and damaging its international standing. Speaking at the launch of the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards, he highlighted the need for the government to address the issue. According to research by JoyNews, 28 drug busts involving Ghana have been recorded over the past year, including 11 major cocaine cases.
The street value of the cocaine seized is estimated to be between $1.3 billion and $1.7 billion. Mr Afenyo-Markin cited customs disclosures at the port of Antwerp, which ranked Ghana fifth among countries of origin. He warned that the consequences of these seizures are already being felt, with the country's image severely damaged and law-abiding exporters bearing the economic cost.
Legitimate shipments of Ghanaian timber, cocoa, cashew, and agricultural produce are now facing intense vetting, prolonged cargo holds, and exorbitant inspection fees at European and global ports. This is due to the heightened risk profile assigned to Ghana as a result of the increased cocaine seizures. Mr Afenyo-Markin accused the government of dodging concerns about the issue and deploying state security agencies against its opponents instead of addressing the problem.
The Minority Leader pointed to the case of Salome Awuti Baffoe and Ghana Jollof as an example of the government's attempt to evade accountability. He alleged that the government is using state security agencies to target opponents rather than tightening port surveillance to prevent further drug trafficking. Mr Afenyo-Markin emphasized the need for the media to hold the government accountable and ensure that it takes concrete actions to address the issue.
Mr Afenyo-Markin also reminded the media that Chapter 12 of the 1992 Constitution guarantees its freedom and independence, and that this carries a duty to hold the government to account. He encouraged the media to continue playing its watchdog role and ensuring that the government is transparent in its actions. The Minority Leader's comments come as the government faces criticism for its handling of the drug-trafficking issue.
The issue has sparked concerns among Ghanaians, who are worried about the impact on the country's economy and international reputation. The government has faced allegations of using state security agencies to target opponents, and Mr Afenyo-Markin's comments are likely to add to the pressure on the government to take action. The country's exporters are already feeling the effects of the increased scrutiny, and there are concerns that the issue could have long-term consequences for Ghana's economy.
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards, at which Mr Afenyo-Markin made the comments, is a prestigious event that recognizes excellence in journalism. The event provides a platform for journalists and media professionals to discuss key issues affecting the country and to promote good governance. Mr Afenyo-Markin's comments are likely to add to the ongoing debate about the government's handling of the drug-trafficking issue and its impact on the country.
Key points
- The country's image has been severely damaged due to increased cocaine seizures.
- Law-abiding exporters are bearing the economic cost of the seizures.
- The government has been accused of using state security agencies against opponents rather than addressing the issue.
