Fix Ghana Maritime Authority surveillance system instead of ‘threatening’ NPP – Dennis Aboagye tells NDC

Dennis Aboagye, a senior advisor to NPP flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged the government to prioritize fixing the Ghana Maritime Authority's surveillance system rather than threatening opposition members over comments related to drug trafficking. This advice came in response to a statement by NDC Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Rashid Tanko-Computer, who mentioned that some NPP members might be approached by security agencies to provide further information regarding allegations of drug-related activities in the country.

Aboagye highlighted that the surveillance system used by the Ghana Maritime Authority to monitor activities on Ghana's high seas has been down for months, raising concerns about the country's ability to effectively monitor its maritime jurisdiction. He emphasized that the system's downtime means that the Ghana Maritime Authority is operating without proper surveillance, effectively working in the dark.

This lack of surveillance undermines Ghana's ability to protect its territorial waters and prevent illicit activities at sea.

The importance of restoring the surveillance system was underscored by Aboagye, who stated that it is critical for protecting Ghana's territorial waters and preventing illicit activities at sea. He explained that Ghana's responsibility for maritime security extends beyond the country's ports into its territorial waters and other areas under its jurisdiction. This means that if a ship moves away from Ghana's ports and sails into the high seas, Ghana has a responsibility to ensure its security.

Aboagye cautioned that gaps in maritime surveillance could provide opportunities for unauthorized vessels to approach ships after they have departed Ghanaian ports. He warned that if the Ghana Maritime Authority does not have the necessary systems in place, it could lead to dangerous situations where speedboats could approach and potentially seize ships after they have left Ghanaian jurisdiction.

In conclusion, Aboagye called on the government to focus on strengthening the country's security systems rather than engaging in political exchanges over recent drug trafficking concerns. He urged the government to prioritize the restoration of the Ghana Maritime Authority's surveillance system to ensure effective maritime security and protect Ghana's territorial waters from illicit activities.