MP laments 'state capture' in Ghana's security sector

Mr Peter Lanchene Tobuu, a member of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, has raised serious concerns about alleged irregularities in the recruitment process of security personnel in Ghana, describing the situation as "state capture."

In a recent interview, he warned that these practices could lead to the politicization of the security sector.

According to Lanchene Toobu, the Minority Leader, Dr. Ato Forson, had previously highlighted that recruitment slots within the security sector were being allocated among NPP Parliamentary Candidates.

This, he explained, has led to widespread confusion and concern among young Ghanaians who applied to join the security services in 2021 and 2022 but were not selected.

The MP for Wa West Constituency in the Upper West Region expressed frustration with the lack of transparency in the recruitment process, criticizing the Ministry of Interior for interfering in administrative matters that should be managed by the heads of security agencies.

He also questioned the government's definition of "backlog," suggesting it was a euphemism for applicants who were not selected in previous recruitment exercises.

Mr. Toobu emphasized that recruitment should follow a standard, transparent process and warned against deviations that could result in the selection of unqualified individuals.

He highlighted the frustration and disillusionment of young Ghanaians awaiting fair recruitment opportunities, noting that unfair practices could erode trust and hope in the system.

He called for transparency and objectivity in the recruitment process, insisting that merit should be the sole criterion for selection.