Investigate drug trafficking allegations and stop the name-calling—Mahama’s administration told

A lawyer for Ghana's former president, Kow Essuman, has made a request. He wants the government to investigate drug trafficking allegations.

He believes these claims harm Ghana's international image. It is crucial for the government to take them seriously.

In a tweet, he highlighted the former president's efforts. He worked hard to improve Ghana’s global reputation. The current government should continue this effort.

Essuman criticized the Government Communications Minister's response to an Opposition MP. He said name-calling, like calling the MP a "clown," is inappropriate. Serious allegations deserve a transparent investigation.

During President Mahama’s administration, gaps were found in Ghana’s anti-money laundering framework. This led to Ghana being listed internationally for deficiencies in its efforts.

FATF Grey List Inclusion:

In October 2018, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) placed Ghana on its grey list. This indicated strategic deficiencies in the country’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures.

The inclusion followed a 2016 evaluation by GIABA that revealed significant gaps.

EU High-Risk Third Countries List:

As a result of FATF’s grey listing, the EU added Ghana to its high-risk countries list on October 18, 2020. This was due to strategic deficiencies in their AML/CFT regimes.

President Akufo-Addo worked hard and used effective diplomacy to remove Ghana from these lists.

Removal from the Lists:

Ghana was removed from the FATF grey list in June 2021. The country showed significant progress in addressing identified deficiencies.

The FATF acknowledged improvements in Ghana’s AML/CFT regime and related technical issues.

Following this decision, the EU removed Ghana from its high-risk list on January 7, 2022. They recognized efforts made to strengthen AML/CFT frameworks.

Steps Taken by Ghana:

To achieve these delistings, several measures were implemented:

1. Legislative Reforms: The Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 created a strong legal framework.

2. Institutional Strengthening: Key institutions like the Financial Intelligence Centre improved their capabilities.

3. International Collaboration: Close work with bodies like FATF and GIABA aligned measures with global standards.

4. Implementation of Action Plans: Comprehensive plans addressed specific deficiencies noted by FATF and EU.

President Akufo-Addo handed over a robust AML/CFT regime to President Mahama that meets international standards. As of April 2025, Ghana remains off both lists due to ongoing commitment.

President Mahama must ensure that Ghana does not return to these lists. Currently, his Government Communications Minister's actions are not helpful.