I’m beginning to suspect NPP members may be involved in drug trafficking – Mustapha Gbande

Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has expressed his suspicions about certain New Patriotic Party (NPP) members potentially being linked to a recent illegal drug bust in Ghana. Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Gbande emphasized the gravity of the drug trafficking issue, calling it a matter of national concern that transcends political boundaries and poses significant threats to Ghana's security and intelligence systems.

Gbande underscored that drug trafficking transcends mere political spectacles and requires a comprehensive, coordinated response from the state rather than political posturing. He commended President John Mahama for his measured approach to handling the situation, highlighting that the President is taking the necessary time to fully comprehend the issue and implement appropriate measures. Gbande expressed his relief that the President is not rushing to address the matter.

Furthermore, Gbande informed that the Presidency has initiated processes to fortify Ghana’s borders and pursue individuals who might have aided or benefited from drug-related crimes. He stressed that the responsibility to combat drug trafficking is a collective national obligation, shared by various stakeholders, including security agencies and institutions operating at Ghana’s ports.

Critiquing the NPP’s calls for protests over the drug bust, Gbande questioned the rationale behind turning the incident into a political platform, suggesting that if the NPP wishes to engage in street activism, it may indicate that some of its members could be implicated in the alleged drug trafficking activities. He urged political actors to refrain from interfering with the investigative processes and allow the relevant institutions to conduct their inquiries in a professional manner.

Gbande reiterated that this is a country governed by rules, and the ongoing investigation should not be politically motivated.