NVF, DCN-Ghana reject MCGG claims on port reforms

The New Voter Forum (NVF) and Democratic Credentials Network Ghana (DCN-Ghana) have dismissed what they describe as “unverified claims” made by the Media Coalition for Good Governance (MCGG) regarding ongoing concerns about port operations in Ghana, particularly issues linked to port disinfection services and the Integrated Customs Management Systems (ICUMS).

The response follows a press conference held by MCGG on Friday, June 5, 2026, which challenged earlier allegations raised by the two civil society organizations during a joint briefing on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Accra International Press Center.

At the centre of the disagreement are concerns raised by NVF and DCN-Ghana over the management and implementation of port-related services, including those involving LCB Worldwide in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service, as well as Ghana Link Network’s role in the ICUMS platform.

The CSOs had previously alleged operational gaps and inefficiencies in these systems, describing them as areas requiring urgent reform under what they referred to as a broader “reset agenda” associated with President John Dramani Mahama.

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In a statement issued on June 8, the two organizations accused MCGG of attempting to “call a bluff” on what they insist are evidence-based concerns.

According to NVF and DCN-Ghana, "the issues they raised are backed by what they describe as hardcore evidence, and they rejected any suggestion that their claims were politically motivated or malicious."

They further criticized MCGG’s defence of port service providers, arguing that such positions risk undermining accountability efforts within critical national infrastructure systems.

The CSOs also challenged MCGG’s claim that it conducted a rapid stakeholder assessment within two days of their press conference.

They argued that such a short review period was insufficient compared to their own months-long independent assessment of operational gaps at the ports.

“Their argument is weak and exposes a lack of understanding of the subject matter,” the statement suggested, adding that credible governance advocacy should focus on strengthening systems rather than defending what they described as “defective processes.”

The CSOs insisted that their advocacy is driven by patriotism and the need to ensure value for money in public service delivery, particularly within port operations.

Reaffirming their position, NVF and DCN-Ghana stated that their campaign is aimed at improving efficiency and accountability in port systems, including the disinfection regime and the ICUMS platform.

They maintained that reforms are necessary to ensure fairness, transparency and improved service delivery in line with national development priorities.

AM

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