The Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference has expressed support for recalling Parliament from recess to examine Ghana's handling of narcotics trafficking and border security measures. This follows a petition by the Minority in Parliament to investigate a 3.9-tonne cocaine shipment linked to Ghana. The Bishops described parliamentary oversight as "legitimate and necessary", stressing that the proposed sitting should not be delayed.
In a statement issued on September 21, the Bishops urged Parliament to handle the proceedings with the seriousness required by the national security implications of the issue. They emphasized the need for sobriety and cooperation from all institutions, rather than partisan point-scoring. The Conference also called for accountability from Ministers responsible for Interior, Transport, and National Security, as well as various agencies.
The Bishops' statement comes as President John Dramani Mahama has directed security agencies to develop a blueprint to improve collaboration and strengthen the country's response to drug trafficking and related security threats. This move aims to enhance the effectiveness of measures used to secure Ghana's entry points and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference emphasized the need for full cooperation and transparency from all institutions involved in the investigation. They urged Parliament to ensure that the proposed sitting proceeds without delay and with the required gravity. The Bishops' support for the parliamentary recall reflects their concern about the national security implications of the cocaine shipment.
The Minority in Parliament had petitioned the Speaker to recall the House and investigate the circumstances surrounding the 3.9-tonne cocaine shipment. The petition was motivated by concerns about the country's response to drug trafficking and the need for accountability from relevant agencies. The Bishops' statement has added momentum to the calls for a parliamentary probe.
The investigation is expected to involve various agencies, including the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Ghana Revenue Authority, Ghana Immigration Service, and National Intelligence Bureau. These agencies will be required to account for the effectiveness of measures used to secure the country's entry points and prevent drug trafficking.
The parliamentary recall and investigation are seen as crucial steps towards addressing Ghana's response to drug trafficking and strengthening national security measures. The Catholic Bishops' support for the recall reflects their commitment to promoting accountability and transparency in the country's governance.
Key points
- The Ghana Catholic Bishops' Conference supports parliamentary recall to investigate 3.9-tonne cocaine shipment.
- President John Dramani Mahama directs security agencies to develop a blueprint to improve collaboration.
- The investigation will involve various agencies, including NACOC and Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.
