Stop Partisan Feedback on Killing of Ghanaian Buyers in Burkina Faso – Ahiafor Cautions MPs

Introduction

In a deeply troubling incident that has sent shockwaves through Ghana and beyond, eight Ghanaian tomato buyers were killed by suspected jihadists in Burkina Faso. The tragedy has sparked intense debate in Ghana’s Parliament, with calls for unity and restraint amid rising partisan tensions. First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Benard Ahiafor, has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to refrain from politicizing the deaths and instead focus on collective efforts to protect Ghanaian citizens abroad.

Key Points

Background

The incident occurred in Burkina Faso, a country grappling with escalating jihadist violence that has destabilized parts of West Africa. Ghanaian traders frequently cross into Burkina Faso to purchase tomatoes, a key agricultural commodity. The lack of adequate irrigation infrastructure in Ghana has made cross-border trade essential for many local buyers. However, the growing insecurity in the region has put these traders at significant risk.

Analysis

The debate in Ghana’s Parliament reflects deeper issues surrounding national security, economic dependency, and political accountability. Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, an NPP MP, criticized the government for not issuing a travel advisory to warn citizens about the dangers in Burkina Faso before the attack. His remarks underscore the need for proactive measures to safeguard Ghanaian nationals abroad.

On the other hand, Samuel Atta Mills, an NDC MP, shifted the focus to domestic infrastructure. He argued that the previous NPP administration’s failure to complete the Pwalugu Dam project has left Ghanaian farmers reliant on imports, thereby exposing them to cross-border risks. The dam, intended to boost irrigation for tomato cultivation, could have reduced the need for risky trade ventures in unstable regions.

First Deputy Speaker Ahiafor’s intervention highlights the importance of depoliticizing national tragedies. By urging MPs to adopt a united front, he emphasized that partisan bickering during times of crisis undermines collective efforts to protect citizens. His call for sensitivity and solidarity is a reminder that national security challenges require bipartisan cooperation.

Practical Advice

For Ghanaian traders and citizens planning to travel to conflict-prone regions like Burkina Faso, the following precautions are essential:

1. **Stay Informed**: Regularly check travel advisories issued by the government and international organizations.
2. **Risk Assessment**: Evaluate the security situation in the destination country before making travel plans.
3. **Emergency Contacts**: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local embassies and family members.
4. **Alternative Routes**: Explore safer trade routes or alternative markets to minimize exposure to conflict zones.
5. **Government Support**: Advocate for stronger government policies to protect citizens abroad and invest in domestic infrastructure to reduce dependency on cross-border trade.

FAQ

Conclusion

The tragic killing of eight Ghanaian buyers in Burkina Faso is a stark reminder of the security challenges facing West Africa. While the incident has sparked political debate, it also underscores the need for unity and proactive measures to protect citizens. By completing critical infrastructure projects and fostering bipartisan cooperation, Ghana can reduce its vulnerability to cross-border risks and ensure the safety of its citizens. As First Deputy Speaker Ahiafor aptly noted, national tragedies demand collective action, not partisan division.