Security consultant Prof. Kwesi Aning has called for the introduction of clearer protocols for presidential visits following the controversial visit of President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso to Ghana during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama on January 7th.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Thursday, January 9th, Prof. Aning addressed the incident in which President Traoré greeted President Mahama while openly carrying a sidearm, raising concerns about security and the appropriate conduct expected at high-profile state events.
Prof. Aning stressed that those responsible for organizing such visits should have established clear guidelines to avoid such incidents.
“Those who handled the protocols around this presidential visit for the inauguration ought to have laid down some clear red lines about how we conduct business in Ghana,” he said.
He further argued that there should be no room for excuses, advocating for a more structured and disciplined approach to state visits.
“All these excuses are unnecessary. Let’s get things done properly, based on correct risk assessments, and make firm decisions in our interest as a sovereign nation,” he added.
Prof. Aning also remarked, “Let this be a lesson for those around the president, who seem to be protecting this new vision of a reset, to ensure that we do things properly.”
Prof. Aning advised that those surrounding the president should ensure the country’s new vision is upheld by adhering to proper procedures and ensuring that all actions reflect the dignity and sovereignty of Ghana.
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