General News of Saturday, 21 April 2018
Source: citinewsroom.com
2018-04-21
Some protesters flashing placards with their messages
A small group of Ghanaians in the United Kingdom have voiced their dissent towards President Nana Akufo-Addo over the Ghana-US Defence cooperation.
The President is in the UK for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London and a few other summits.
The protestors had massed up in front of a lecture facility at the London School of Economics.
A video on social media showed protesters, clad in protest-red, hooting at the President as they aired their opposition to the deal.
Despite the protests, President Akufo-Addo still had time for a smile and a wave at the protesting Ghanaians.
With the agreement ratified, US troops will among other things be exempted from paying taxes on equipment that are brought to Ghana as well be able to use Ghana’s radio spectrum for free.
Privileges of privacy have also been granted to the US army and potential contractors who may operate on Ghanaian soil.
Critics, particularly from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), maintain that Ghana’s sovereignty has been mortgaged.
This has also culminated in protests anchored by opposition political parties, including one in Tamale today [Saturday].
In a national address earlier in April, President Akufo-Addo justified the deal saying the continuation of the agreement was necessary because of increased security threats in sub-region
He also said the US had not violated previous military cooperation agreements hence the extension and continuation of the contract will ensure that Ghana maintains its reputation for contributing to global peace-keeping and security.
During his trip the President was also scheduled to address at the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce Investment Summit; speak at the Malaria Summit, hosted by Bill Gates; attend the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council Business Forum; and, on Saturday, 21st April 2018, deliver the keynote speech at the London School of Economics‘Africa Summit
President Akufo-Addo and the delegation will return to Ghana on Sunday, April 22, 2018.