MCGG Rejects Unverified CSO Claims on Ports, Demands Evidence-Based Reform

Story by Fada Amakye

The Media Coalition for Good Governance, MCGG, has dismissed unverified claims by some joint civil society organisations, CSOs, on Ghana’s port operations, warning that such assertions threaten ongoing reforms in health security and trade facilitation.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, MCGG Convener Kwadwo Baffour Atuahene said the group does not dispute that port systems can improve, but insisted that criticism must be backed by facts and data.

“Acknowledging that systems can improve is not the same as accepting unsupported allegations,” he stated. “No port system anywhere in the world is perfect. Like all advanced ports globally, Ghana’s ports require continuous enhancement across customs operations, terminal management, shipping logistics, health surveillance, and related regulatory frameworks.”

Mr. Atuahene said MCGG supports efforts to improve efficiency, transparency, infrastructure, and operational standards at the ports. However, he stressed that meaningful reform cannot be driven by claims lacking factual backing or professional analysis.

He acknowledged the role of CSOs in promoting accountability and democratic governance, but cautioned that the role comes with responsibility.

“That role carries with it a responsibility to ensure that public statements meet a minimum standard of accuracy, fairness, and evidentiary integrity,” he said. “Assertions made without data, methodology, or verifiable findings do not advance reform. They undermine it.”

According to him, sectors critical to national trade facilitation and public health protection require all stakeholders to commit to fact-based discourse and responsible advocacy.

“That is how institutions are strengthened. That is how public confidence is maintained. And that is how Ghana’s health security architecture can continue to evolve and improve in the national interest,” Mr. Atuahene concluded.

His remarks follow recent concerns raised by some CSOs over port disinfection services and the reliability of the Integrated Customs Management System, ICUMS, which they claimed were disrupting trade.

MCGG reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, but urged stakeholders to shun sensationalism and pursue evidence-based solutions.