Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has demanded a bipartisan parliamentary probe into Ghana's increasing international notoriety for drug trafficking. He stated that Ghana's name is being tarnished in European ports due to drugs passing through its borders unnoticed. Dr. Bawumia accused the current government of responding with mere meetings instead of decisive action.
This call for action follows concerns about Ghana's reputation abroad. Dr. Bawumia emphasized that arresting couriers is insufficient to address the problem. He stressed the need to identify those financing these drug shipments and understand how they consistently bypass border controls. A public inquiry with powers to summon witnesses and demand shipping records is essential, he argued.
This issue fits into a broader narrative of economic and governance challenges facing Ghana. Drug trafficking can severely impact a nation's international standing, trade relations, and financial integrity. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of border security and anti-money laundering efforts. The demand for a probe reflects growing public and political concern over the country's image and the potential economic repercussions.
Speaking at the NPP National Delegates Conference in Kumasi, Dr. Bawumia, the 2028 flagbearer, articulated these concerns. He stated, "Our country's name is being dragged through the ports of Europe, and the government has answered with meetings, not results." He added that religious groups, civil society organizations, and concerned Ghanaians share these worries about the country's international image.
The implications of unchecked drug trafficking are significant, potentially leading to sanctions, reduced foreign investment, and increased scrutiny of financial transactions. A bipartisan probe could restore public confidence and identify systemic weaknesses in national security and law enforcement. Decision-makers will need to respond to these calls for transparency and accountability to protect Ghana's economic future and international reputation. This situation also highlights the ongoing political discourse ahead of the 2028 general elections, with opposition figures scrutinizing government performance across various sectors.
Beyond drug trafficking, Dr. Bawumia also addressed other critical national issues. He criticized the handling of galamsey, or illegal mining, stating it has worsened under the current administration. He pointed out that Agenda 111, a project designed to build 111 district hospitals, has stalled, impacting healthcare access and job creation for health graduates. Furthermore, he claimed that the Free SHS programme, a flagship education policy, is suffering despite promises to improve it. He noted that many BECE graduates are being deliberately cut off from Free SHS, with parents being told their children failed. He reminded delegates that the NDC initially opposed Free SHS. Dr. Bawumia also labeled promises to cocoa farmers, such as increasing cocoa prices to GHS 6,500, as a "scam." He similarly dismissed promises of automatic posting for teachers and nurses, and the Nkoko Nkitikiti programme, as failures. These criticisms underscore a broader political debate about economic management and social policy implementation.