Malik Basintale, Deputy National Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has made explosive allegations against members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). Basintale claims that NPP officials are involved in the illicit smuggling of fertilizers from the Upper East Region to neighboring countries, including Burkina Faso and Togo. This smuggling operation has severely hindered local farmers’ efforts, contributing to agricultural underperformance in the region and exacerbating economic challenges faced by farming communities.
Speaking at a rally in Binduri, Upper East Region, Basintale accused Abdulai Abanga, Member of Parliament for Binduri and Deputy Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, of being a key figure in the alleged smuggling network. Basintale vowed that if the NDC wins the upcoming December polls, those involved in the practice would face legal consequences.
“All the fertiliser that has been given to them, they have smuggled everything to Burkina Faso,” Basintale said. “When the NDC comes, they will go to jail. If we don’t jail them, the people of Ghana will not be happy with us. If we don’t jail them, the people of Binduri will not be happy with us.”
The issue of fertilizer smuggling has been a persistent problem in Ghana, with President Akufo-Addo previously calling on citizens to support security services in ending the smuggling. National Security personnel have also made arrests and impounded smuggled goods, including vegetable oil from Togo.
Basintale’s allegations have sparked outrage, with some youth threatening police action over rumors of his arrest. The NDC has pledged to tackle corruption and smuggling if elected.
The fertilizer smuggling scandal has significant implications for Ghana’s agricultural sector and economy. The Upper East Region, where the smuggling is alleged to be occurring, is a critical agricultural hub.
Experts warn that smuggling essential agricultural resources undermines local farmers’ productivity and exacerbates poverty.
The NDC’s promises to tackle corruption and smuggling have resonated with many Ghanaians. As Ghana prepares for the December polls, the fertilizer smuggling scandal is likely to remain a contentious issue.
