The Minority Caucus has warned that the proposed Security and Intelligence Agencies Bill, 2025 could open the door to politicisation and weaken financial transparency within Ghana’s intelligence framework.

It argued that the structure of Regional and District Security Councils, chaired by Regional Ministers and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), creates risks during politically sensitive periods.

“During sensitive periods, especially elections, such structures can be misused to suppress lawful political activity,” the Caucus cautioned, noting the absence of cross-party representation requirements.

The Minority further criticised what it described as insufficient human rights safeguards in the Bill. It said broad phrases such as protecting against activities intended to undermine the constitutional order could be interpreted to target legitimate opposition, protest or civic activism.

“Although political neutrality is mentioned, there are no enforcement mechanisms or clear sanctions for breaches,” it observed.

On financial accountability, the Minority noted that while Parliament approves funding for intelligence agencies and the Auditor-General audits their accounts, the Bill does not require detailed budget breakdowns or structured reporting to enable effective scrutiny.

It also highlighted the absence of obligations to publish non-sensitive audit findings or provide structured briefings to relevant parliamentary committees.

“Ghana needs a security framework that is strong and professional, but also accountable and firmly anchored in the Constitution,” the Minority concluded. “Parliament must get this balance right.”