Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has warned that drug trafficking in Ghana poses a growing threat to young people, families and the country’s productivity, as the Minority renews its push for parliamentary scrutiny of recent narcotics cases.
Speaking at a media briefing ahead of Parliament’s resumption on Tuesday, November 3, Hon Afenyo-Markin said the debate over recent drug seizures should not be limited to Ghana’s international reputation or border security.
“The proliferation of illicit drugs threatens the health and the future of our young people.
"It destroys families, undermines productivity, and places an increasing burden on our healthcare and social welfare systems.” - Hon Afenyo-Markin
“We risk losing a generation of young people whose potential should be contributing to the development of our country,” he added.
Minority Pushes for Parliamentary Scrutiny
Hon Afenyo-Markin said Parliament must also examine whether weaknesses within public institutions and regulatory systems are making it easier for narcotics networks to operate.
“Beyond the implications for national security and our international reputation, we must also confront the devastating consequences of narcotics finding their way into our communities.” - Hon Afenyo-Markin
The Minority has filed an application under Standing Order 127 seeking a review of Speaker Alban Bagbin’s September 29 ruling that blocked an earlier request for a parliamentary inquiry into major narcotics seizures linked to Ghana.
Speaker Bagbin ruled the original motion inadmissible after finding that parts of the proposed investigation could overlap with ongoing criminal proceedings and potentially prejudice cases before the courts.
The Minority maintains that its proposed inquiry would examine the performance of state institutions rather than determine the guilt or innocence of individuals facing criminal charges.
“It is against this background that we the Minority consider parliamentary scrutiny of these institutional and regulatory matters both necessary and consistent with Parliament’s constitutional oversight responsibility.” - Hon Afenyo-Markin
Dunkirk Cocaine Seizure Fuels Concerns
Among the cases cited by the Minority is the seizure of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine at the Port of Dunkirk in France in September.
French authorities said the cocaine, valued at about €225 million, was found in 167 packages concealed among plastic waste in a container that had arrived from Ghana.
Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission subsequently announced the arrest of three suspects as part of investigations into the shipment. The suspects were said to be assisting investigators, with the case still ongoing.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said the fight against narcotics trafficking required national attention and stronger accountability from agencies responsible for protecting Ghana’s borders and communities.
“This is why the fight against narcotic drug trafficking must concern every Ghanaian,” he said.
The Minority’s review application is expected to come before Parliament following the House’s return.
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