Richard Ahiagbah, the Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has urged the government to allow the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to address the public regarding the cargo of two aircraft that recently landed at Kotoka International Airport under suspicious circumstances. He emphasized that such matters should be handled by professionals to ensure transparency and maintain public trust.
Ahiagbah’s concerns stem from the government’s perceived reluctance to provide detailed explanations about these aircraft, which has led to public speculation and concern. He questioned the government’s hesitance, stating, “What is the government afraid of?” He further insisted that NACOC, as the appropriate authority, should inform Ghanaians about the developments regarding earlier arrests involving drugs, gold, and currency.
Mr. Ahiagbah highlighted the potential economic and reputational risks associated with perceptions of deficiencies in Ghana’s anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing regimes. He noted that such perceptions could lead to reduced investment, increased scrutiny, and challenges in accessing international finance. Ahiagbah called on the government to prioritize transparency to build trust and demonstrate a commitment to upholding AML/CFT protocols.
The NPP’s Director of Communications also criticized the government’s handling of these issues, describing their explanations as “inadequate and defensive,” which, according to him, only deepens public suspicion. He urged the government to provide a detailed and professional response from the appropriate security agencies regarding the cargo and purpose of the aircraft.
