The Ghanaian political landscape has been stirred by allegations of escalating drug trafficking and money laundering barely three months after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) assumed power. The Minority New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus in Parliament has voiced deep concerns regarding the government’s handling of these sensitive security matters, demanding greater transparency and accountability. Central to their critique is the government’s perceived silence surrounding the investigation into a significant seizure of gold and cash from 12 containers in Sapeiman, Accra, nearly two months prior. The Minority has questioned the lack of public updates on the investigation’s progress, including the identities of those involved and the precise quantity of gold and cash recovered. This perceived lack of transparency has fueled suspicion and calls for a more thorough and open investigation.
Adding to the Minority’s concerns are two separate incidents involving suspicious flights that landed at Kotoka International Airport in March 2025, allegedly carrying cargo suspected to be cocaine and cash. The caucus has pressed for a comprehensive investigation into these incidents, demanding clarity on the nature of the cargo, the individuals involved, and the measures taken by the authorities to address the potential breaches in national security. The Minority contends that the government’s silence on these matters raises serious questions about its commitment to combating drug trafficking and money laundering. They argue that a transparent and proactive approach is essential to maintain public trust and ensure the integrity of the nation’s security apparatus.
Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, has spearheaded the Minority’s call for accountability. He has publicly challenged the National Security apparatus to provide a detailed account of the Sapeiman raid, including the intended disposition of the seized assets. Furthermore, he has emphasized the Minority’s commitment to holding the government responsible for its handling of these sensitive security issues. This stance reflects the opposition’s determination to fulfill its oversight role and ensure that national security concerns are addressed with the utmost seriousness and transparency.
The Minority has also linked the perceived increase in security vulnerabilities to the NDC’s previous opposition to the procurement of two offshore patrol vessels by the former Akufo-Addo government. They argue that the NDC’s resistance to bolstering the Ghana Navy’s capabilities has contributed to the nation’s maritime security challenges, making Ghanaian vessels more susceptible to pirate attacks. Specifically, they cite a pirate attack on a Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel on March 27, 2025, as evidence of the increased risks posed by inadequate maritime security measures.
The Minority’s argument hinges on the assertion that the NDC’s opposition to the patrol vessel procurement stemmed from political considerations rather than a genuine assessment of national security needs. They suggest that this politically motivated decision has now left Ghana’s territorial waters more vulnerable to criminal activities, including piracy. This critique highlights the potentially serious consequences of politicizing national security decisions and underscores the importance of prioritizing the nation’s safety and well-being above partisan interests.
The confluence of these security concerns has created a tense political climate in Ghana. The Minority’s accusations represent a significant challenge to the NDC government’s credibility and its commitment to maintaining law and order. The government’s response to these allegations will be crucial in shaping public perception and determining the course of the ongoing debate. A thorough and transparent investigation into the alleged drug trafficking and money laundering incidents, coupled with a clear articulation of the government’s strategy for enhancing national security, will be essential to restore public confidence and address the Minority’s concerns. The effectiveness of the government’s response will ultimately determine whether these issues become a defining feature of its tenure.
