Journalist Pratt Questions Ghana’s Defense Agreement with the US — MyJoyOnline
In Cape Coast, Ghana, veteran Ghanaian journalist Kwesi Pratt Jr. questioned certain provisions of the Defense Cooperation Agreement between Ghana and the United States. In his view, they raise concerns about the country’s sovereignty and national interests. MyJoyOnline reports.
Pratt spoke on September 18 at the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lecture at the University of Cape Coast. During the event, the media manager and Pan-Africanist was also awarded a Doctor of Letters degree. He called on Ghanaian citizens to critically assess the agreement and demand accountability regarding arrangements that, in his view, affect national interests.
Concerns about the agreement’s provisions
The agreement, which entered into force in May 2018, establishes a framework for expanded defense cooperation between Ghana and the US. According to Pratt, one of its provisions prevents Ghana from seeking compensation if US military personnel cause damage to property in the country.
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The journalist also drew attention to a provision that, he claims, grants US military personnel the right to use Ghana’s national frequencies free of charge. Pratt compared this with the conditions for Ghanaian television broadcasters, who must pay to use frequencies despite operating in the public interest.
Criticism of Ghanaian governments
Pratt criticized successive governments, accusing them of failing to protect the country’s dignity. He also stated that the authorities do not respect Ghana’s dignity and undermine the vision of the country’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
According to the journalist, Ghanaian citizens should demand greater accountability from governments for decisions and agreements concerning national interests.
