Franklin Cudjoe raises alarm over politicization of military procurement

Franklin Cudjoe, the President of IMANI Africa, has sounded the alarm regarding the detrimental effects of politicising state logistics procurement, particularly concerning military aircraft and presidential jets.

His remarks come in the wake of increasing scrutiny over the quality and effectiveness of state assets, especially following the tragic helicopter crash on August 6 that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two senior ministers.

Mr. Cudjoe highlighted critical conversations about military procurement, which often devolve into partisan squabbles rather than focusing on the operational needs of the Ghana Armed Forces.

“Anytime certain equipment like aircraft is being purchased for the presidency, irrespective of whether the president is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, it becomes a subject for political bickering,” he stated on Channel One TV on Saturday, August 16.

Mr Cudjoe emphasised that this political environment creates a breeding ground for potential abuses, allowing the Ministry of Defence to frequently rely on secrecy to push through questionable deals.

“Inasmuch as I feel sad that these conversations are politicised, you and I are also very much aware that the procurement-inspired economy that we run essentially makes it easy for the Defence Ministry to hide under these whole conversations about secrecy and then give us a pillow we will not be happy about,” he warned.

The recent helicopter crash has intensified calls for transparency and accountability in military procurement.

Critics argue that the lack of proper oversight can lead to the acquisition of substandard or inappropriate equipment for the military, jeopardizing the safety of Ghana’s security forces.

Data from the Ghana Armed Forces indicates that up to 40% of their operational assets, including aircraft, are ageing and in need of urgent upgrades.

Cudjoe’s concerns are echoed by various civil society organizations that have been advocating for improved procurement processes.

They argue that transparency is crucial not only for public trust but also for ensuring that the military receives the best possible equipment to fulfill its duties effectively.

The issue of accountability in state logistics procurement has become a hot topic, especially with the recent tragic events serving as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting the operational needs of the armed forces.

Ghana’s military has historically faced challenges in securing adequate funding and resources, which can hinder their ability to respond effectively to crises.

“This is about more than just politics; it’s about the safety and security of our nation,” Mr Cudjoe concluded, urging stakeholders to prioritize the needs of the military over political gains.

As the nation grapples with the implications of the recent crash, it is clear that a shift towards transparency and accountability in military procurement is urgently needed to safeguard the lives of those who serve and protect Ghana.

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