Accra, Ghana – The Media Coalition for Good Governance (MCGG) issued a strong rebuttal on Wednesday against recent claims by some civil society organizations (CSOs) concerning Ghana’s port operations. The coalition described the allegations as lacking verifiable evidence and warned that such unsubstantiated assertions risk undermining crucial reforms in trade facilitation and public health security.
Context of Ongoing Reforms
Ghana’s ports are undergoing significant modernization efforts aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and security. These initiatives are vital for the nation’s economic gateway, impacting trade flows, revenue collection, and public health surveillance. Recent discussions have centered on the effectiveness of port disinfection services and the reliability of the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS).
MCGG’s Stance on Allegations
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, MCGG Convener Kwadwo Baffour Atuahene emphasized that while acknowledging the need for continuous improvement in port systems, unsupported allegations distract from genuine progress. “Acknowledging that systems can improve is not the same as accepting unsupported allegations,” Atuahene stated.
He pointed out that no port system globally is without flaws, and Ghana’s ports, like others worldwide, require ongoing enhancements in customs operations, terminal management, shipping logistics, health surveillance, and regulatory frameworks. The MCGG fully supports these continuous improvement efforts.
The Importance of Evidence-Based Reform
Atuahene stressed that constructive reform must be grounded in facts, data, and professional analysis, rather than sensationalism or claims without factual backing. “MCGG fully supports ongoing work to improve efficiency, transparency, infrastructure, and operational standards at the ports. But reform cannot be built on sensationalism,” he remarked.
While recognizing the essential role of CSOs in democratic accountability, the MCGG Convener underscored the responsibility that comes with public statements. “Public statements must meet a minimum standard of accuracy, fairness, and evidentiary integrity,” he asserted.
Assertions made without supporting data, methodology, or verifiable findings do not contribute to reform; instead, they undermine it, according to the MCGG. The coalition believes that sectors as sensitive as national trade facilitation and public health protection demand fact-based discourse, constructive engagement, and responsible advocacy.
Addressing Concerns and Maintaining Confidence
The MCGG’s remarks follow recent concerns voiced by a coalition of CSOs regarding the effectiveness of port disinfection services and the reliability of the ICUMS, which they claimed was disrupting trade. In response, the MCGG reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability.
However, they urged all stakeholders to eschew speculation and concentrate on evidence-driven solutions. The coalition stated its openness to engaging with all actors, provided that discussions are anchored in verifiable data and professional analysis.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Effective Reform
“Ghana’s ports are a gateway to the economy,” Atuahene concluded. “Getting reform right matters — but getting the facts right comes first.” This statement underscores the MCGG’s forward-looking perspective, emphasizing that sustained progress in modernizing Ghana’s ports and strengthening its security infrastructure hinges on a commitment to factual accuracy and responsible dialogue among all stakeholders.
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