Rev Ntim Fordjour, Ranking Member of Parliament's Defence and Interior Committee, has cautioned MPs against allowing partisan politics to overshadow Ghana's growing drug trafficking crisis. He emphasized that Parliament's response must be driven by the national interest. The Assin South MP made these comments on Joy News' PM Express, stressing that MPs should prioritize Ghana's interests over political considerations.
The warning comes amid growing concern over Ghana's links to major international drug seizures. Recently, French customs intercepted nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine at Dunkirk, which had arrived from Ghana. The consignment was concealed in a container of plastic waste. Four Ghanaians have been arraigned before the Accra High Court, while a fifth suspect, Dutch national Jos Leijdekkers, remains at large.
This latest seizure adds to a series of narcotics cases linked to Ghana. Over 40 MPs have cited seizures linked to Ghana, worth more than US$1 billion, in their petition to recall Parliament. The Minority has invoked Article 112(3) of the Constitution and the relevant Standing Orders to demand an emergency parliamentary sitting. Fordjour stated that MPs must approach the issue as a national security matter.
Fordjour highlighted the security implications of the drug trafficking crisis, linking it to money laundering and terrorism. He warned that the drugs retained in Ghana would be consumed by the youth, leading to destruction. The proposed recall of Parliament would allow for a bipartisan committee to conduct a full inquiry into the crisis.
Fordjour criticized the government's handling of the crisis, calling for stronger leadership. He urged President Mahama to act decisively upon his return from the UNGA. The Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference has also urged a coordinated national response to the drug menace and called for stronger investigations into the networks behind major drug shipments linked to Ghana.
Fordjour confirmed that Parliament has secured more than the required 15% of MPs' signatures for a recall. The petition, signatures, and memorandum were filed last week, and the Speaker has acknowledged receipt. He expressed interest in finding solutions that restore Ghana to its former glory.
The parliamentary inquiry should focus on finding solutions rather than deepening political divisions, Fordjour emphasized. He urged MPs to prioritize the national interest and not make the issue a political one. The crisis requires a coordinated response to address its security, social, and economic implications.
Key points
- Rev Ntim Fordjour warns MPs against politicizing Ghana's drug trafficking crisis.
- The crisis has led to major international drug seizures, including 3.9 tonnes of cocaine intercepted in France.
- Fordjour calls for stronger leadership and a coordinated national response to address the crisis.
