Accra:Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has urged the media to intensify their investigations into recent narcotics shipments linked to Ghana, aiming to uncover the circumstances surrounding their movement.
According to Ghana News Agency, his appeal comes after the Speaker dismissed a Minority motion that sought a bipartisan parliamentary inquiry into alleged security failures, which reportedly allowed multi-tonne consignments of narcotics to traverse Ghana's borders.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin emphasized at the launch of the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards that when the legislature is restricted from probing such issues, it becomes imperative for the media to seek answers. The Minority has filed a motion to review the Speaker's decision, highlighting the critical role of investigative journalism in the absence of a parliamentary inquiry.
He expressed concern over the controversy's impact on legitimate Ghanaian exporters, citing official disclosures from Belgian Customs at the Port of Antwerp. These disclosures revealed that Ghana ranks fifth among countries of origin for cocaine entering Belgium, a situation detrimental to the country's international reputation.
As a result of the increased risk profile, legitimate shipments of Ghanaian timber, cocoa, cashew, and other agricultural produce are undergoing heightened scrutiny, facing prolonged cargo holds and higher inspection fees at European and other international ports.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin urged journalists to concentrate on uncovering the facts, tracing the narcotics shipments, examining potential institutional complicity, and demanding accountability. He also called on political leaders to promote dialogue and reduce partisan tensions, stressing the importance of prioritizing the national interest in political discussions.