Balancing Security and Humanity: Dr. Sowatey on Ghana’s Response to Ivory Coast Crisis
[14:35, 10/21/2025] Page One Wear: The upcoming presidential election in Ivory Coast on October 25 has intensified political tensions, as two prominent opposition figures, former leader Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam, have been barred from running. The interior and defence ministries have imposed a two-month ban on all parties except the five officially approved candidates. President Alassane Ouattara, who is seeking a controversial fourth term, has faced strong condemnation from the opposition coalition, the Common Front, which accuses him of undermining democratic principles. Violence and civil unrest have followed, with protests across Abidjan and other regions met by police crackdowns. Disruptions, including road and school blockades, have severely affected daily life, while many Ivorians fearing for their safety have fled to neighboring Ghana in search of refuge. In response to the growing security concerns at the border, Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has called on security personnel at the Elubo border post to maintain heightened vigilance in monitoring cross-border movements. He stressed the critical importance of thorough checks to prevent any security threats from passing into Ghana undetected. The minister emphasized that no criminal elements must be allowed to slip through, underscoring the need for tight border controls given the volatile situation in Ivory Coast. Security expert Dr. Emmanuel Sowatey, speaking in an interview on Ahotor News, highlighted the importance of effective border management not only to control migration but also to enhance national security. While Ghana and Ivory Coast have historically enjoyed good neighborly relations based on mutual trust, Dr. Sowatey warned of the risks associated with porous borders. He noted that terrorist groups tend to exploit weak areas lacking police or military presence. However, with Ghana’s current strengthened security arrangements, the likelihood of terrorist groups entering through the border is relatively low. Dr. Sowatey also pointed out the intelligence value refugees can provide if their presence is well managed, which can contribute positively to Ghana’s security efforts. Drawing on his research from the 2000-2003 period at the Budumburam refugee camp, Dr. Sowatey shared insights into the complex impacts refugees can have on host communities. While refugees often face hardships, their arrival can stimulate local economies, as seen with Liberian refugees who brought increased foreign exchange through Western Union transfers. Their food preferences also created new markets, such as for cassava leaf, which became a delicacy sold by local Ghanaians. Land values in affected areas increased as landowners capitalized on the demand, generating economic opportunities. This experience evidences that refugee influxes are not solely burdens but can foster economic growth and social cohesion if managed well. On the issue of gun regulation, Dr. Sowatey urged the public to be proactive in ensuring compliance with firearm laws. He stressed that while possessing a gun legally requires licensing, many people remain unaware of the proper licensing procedures or fail to renew permits. He encouraged citizens to inquire about whether gun owners have valid licenses and to report any misuse or illegal possession of firearms to the police or media. Such community vigilance is essential for maintaining public safety, especially in a tense regional security environment influenced by neighboring conflict and displacement flows. Source: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku