Gov’t Not Interested In Wild Goose Chase –Muntaka

The Minister for Interior, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, has assured the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) that the government of President John Dramani Mahama is not interested in engaging in baseless allegations or political witch-hunting.

Speaking during his maiden visit to the GIS headquarters, Mr. Muntaka emphasised that investigations would only be conducted when deemed necessary, particularly in matters affecting national security and service morale.

His remarks were in response to concerns raised by GIS Comptroller-General, Kwame Asuah Takyi, who indicated that he had been accused of embezzling funds related to the purchase of service buses.

“We are not interested in a wild goose chase simply because people are making comments or complaints. If you have facts, bring them forward and we will investigate. But I can assure you, we will not engage in witch-hunting,” Mr. Muntaka stated.

Government to Deploy Technology to Prevent Revenue Leakages

The Interior Minister also revealed government’s commitment to enhancing GIS operations through technology. He announced plans to digitize all payment services under the Ministry of Interior within a year, eliminating cash transactions to curb extortion, bribery and revenue leakages.

“In the next year, no service under the Interior Ministry will collect cash payments. Everything will be electronic to ensure transparency and efficiency,” he declared.

Recognising GIS’s critical role in national security and border management, Mr. Muntaka pledged to retool the service and improve working conditions.

He acknowledged challenges such as promotions, transfers and accommodation and assured officers that these concerns would be addressed under President Mahama’s administration.

Additionally, he commended the GIS for its intelligence operations, highlighting its effectiveness in providing daily security briefings.

“As Minister for Interior and now overseeing national security, I will work closely with you to ensure our borders remain safe and our officers are well-equipped to carry out their duties,” he assured.

Commitment to Public-Private Partnerships

Mr. Muntaka further revealed that government would explore Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to support the Interior Ministry.

He assured stakeholders that such collaborations would not compromise internal security, but rather enhance service delivery.

“We will look at how we can partner with private entities – both for-profit and non-profit – to improve services, generate revenue and create opportunities for our agencies,” he said.

The Interior Minister concluded his visit by reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening GIS operations and ensuring that officers receive the necessary support to execute their mandate effectively.

Comptroller-General Calls for Probe into Bus Purchase Allegations

During the visit, Comptroller-General Kwame Asuah Takyi called for an official investigation into allegations surrounding the procurement of twenty 30-seater buses for GIS officers.

He expressed concerns that some officers had misinterpreted the purchase, leading to public speculation and attempts to tarnish his reputation.

“In order to clear any doubts and uphold the integrity of this office, I respectfully request the constitution of an investigative body to examine the procurement process, while I am still in office,” he appealed.

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