Investigate McDan, military confrontations – Importer and Exporters Association

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana is demanding a full and transparent investigation into the alleged assault of Dr. Daniel McKorley, Chief Executive Officer of the McDan Group.

The incident reportedly occurred during the demolition of one of the company’s warehouses, where some members of his staff were also allegedly mistreated by military personnel.

This follows troubling media reports, particularly by JoyNews, detailing a confrontation between soldiers and the McDan management team at the site of the demolished warehouse. Eyewitnesses alleged that Dr. McKorley and his senior staff were held at gunpoint and forced to kneel during the operation. A journalist covering the incident was also reportedly assaulted.

Although President John Dramani Mahama has publicly condemned the attack on the journalist and reiterated his government’s commitment to press freedom, the IEAG expressed dismay over what it described as a “conspicuous silence” on the alleged mistreatment of the McDan CEO and his team.

“This silence sends a worrying signal to the business community and threatens to undermine investor confidence in Ghana,” the Association said in a statement issued on Friday.

The IEAG described Dr. McKorley as a highly respected business leader, noting his international acclaim and philanthropic efforts as a model of Ghanaian entrepreneurship. The Association warned that any action that undermines such individuals risks damaging Ghana’s image as a stable, investor-friendly destination.

In its statement, the IEAG drew comparisons between the McDan incident and the 2020 demolition of the Universal Labels and Packaging Company, formerly owned by journalist-turned-entrepreneur Raymond Archer. That incident, widely criticized at the time, has remained a sore point for the private sector. The Association suggested a growing pattern of politically tinged actions targeting high-profile business figures.

“We urge President Mahama to demonstrate his longstanding commitment to the rule of law by ensuring this matter is investigated thoroughly and impartially,” the statement added.

Executive Secretary of the IEAG, Mr. Samson Asaki Awingobit, emphasized that while political leaders may come and go, the integrity of the business environment must remain sacrosanct.

“The strength of our economy rests on fairness, legal integrity, and mutual respect. Ghana must not allow politics to stifle the spirit of entrepreneurship,” he stated.

The Association also cautioned business leaders against using political affiliations as shields or weapons in competition, calling instead for a neutral business environment free from political interference.