The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for a parliamentary inquiry into reported cases of cocaine trafficking linked to Ghana. National Organiser of the NPP, Henry Nana Boakye, also known as Nana B, made the demand at an NPP press conference on drug trafficking. He expressed concerns about the potential impact on Ghana's international reputation and criticised President John Dramani Mahama over the issue.
Nana B said Parliament must investigate the circumstances surrounding recent narcotics interceptions and examine whether weaknesses in Ghana's port and security systems are allowing illicit drugs to pass through the country. He claimed that reports of drug trafficking associated with Ghana could have consequences for ordinary citizens who travel or conduct business abroad. Ghanaians, he said, are increasingly subjected to additional scrutiny at international airports.
According to Nana B, Ghanaian travellers and exporters are facing heightened suspicion at international points of entry due to reported drug trafficking cases. He alleged that exporters from Ghana are now treated with suspicion, and Ghanaian travellers carry a stigma they did not create. Nana B argued that Parliament has a responsibility to establish the facts surrounding the reported interceptions and shipments allegedly connected to Ghana.
The NPP's demand for a parliamentary inquiry follows the interception by French authorities of a large consignment of suspected cocaine believed to have been shipped from Ghana. Nana B called for Parliament to scrutinise shipping documents, inspection records, production records, and other relevant documentation as part of the proposed inquiry. He emphasised that the inquiry will help determine the extent of weaknesses in Ghana's port and security systems.
Nana B criticised President John Dramani Mahama, saying he promised Ghanaians a 24-hour economy but instead delivered a country whose name now triggers extra searches and suspicion. He claimed that the NPP's concerns about drug trafficking are not just about the issue itself but also about the potential consequences for Ghana's international reputation and the impact on ordinary citizens.
The NPP's call for a parliamentary inquiry is the latest development in the country's efforts to address the issue of cocaine trafficking. The party's demand comes amid concerns that Ghana's reputation is being tarnished by reports of drug trafficking. Nana B's comments reflect the NPP's determination to hold the government accountable for its handling of the issue.
The parliamentary inquiry, if approved, will investigate the circumstances surrounding recent narcotics interceptions and examine the impact of cocaine trafficking on Ghana's international reputation. The inquiry will also look into possible weaknesses in Ghana's port and security systems that may be allowing illicit drugs to pass through the country.
Key points
- NPP demands parliamentary inquiry into cocaine trafficking concerns
- Ghana's international reputation at risk due to cocaine trafficking
- Parliament to scrutinise shipping documents and security systems
