"Criticism is necessary to push for better results" - James Agalga to Ghana Immigration Service

The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior, James Agalga, has emphasized the Committee’s commitment to supporting the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) in its mandate to safeguard the country’s borders and national security.

Speaking during the Committee’s visit to the GIS Headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, Mr. Agalga outlined the purpose of the visit as part of their oversight responsibility over the Ministry of the Interior, which includes the GIS.

He highlighted the evolving dynamics within Parliament, where new members have joined following the last election, resulting in a fresh team for the Committee.

“This is a friendly visit to interact with you and understand the progress you’ve made, the challenges you face, and how we can better support your mission,” Mr. Agalga said.

He pointed out that the Committee’s role is not only to offer praise but to provide constructive criticism where necessary to ensure that the GIS continues to grow in its capacity to secure the nation’s borders.

“Sometimes, criticism is necessary to push for better results. When we criticize, it’s always in a constructive manner. Our aim is to help you become better in fulfilling your responsibilities,” he emphasized.

Mr. Agalga also acknowledged the successes of the GIS in recent times and noted that new challenges had arisen, necessitating ongoing collaboration and dialogue.

He assured the GIS management that the Committee would continue to work hand-in-hand with the Service to enhance peace and security in Ghana.

“The work you do is crucial, especially at our frontiers. We attach great importance to it, and that’s why we are here today,” Mr. Agalga said, expressing gratitude for the warm reception that the Committee had received from the GIS during previous visits.

On his part, Deputy Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior, Kofi Amankwa-Manu called for a depoliticized approach to national security, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the safety and stability of Ghana over partisan interests.

“Security should never be politicized,” Mr. Amankwa-Manu stressed. “When the house falls, it falls on all of us. That is why, as members of this Committee, we strive to minimize political interference and focus on the shared goal of protecting our country.”

He acknowledged the pivotal role the GIS plays in Ghana’s security architecture, especially in safeguarding the nation’s porous borders amidst growing regional and global threats.

“Immigration officers are often seen only through the lens of statistics—figures and data—but it’s important we come here to understand the people behind the numbers,” he said.

"When we speak to the figures in Parliament, we must know the human stories, the sacrifices, and the challenges behind them.”

Mr. Amankwa-Manu reaffirmed the Committee’s intention to listen, learn, and lend support.

He echoed the sentiments of the Committee Chair, Hon. James Agalga, emphasizing the importance of constructive criticism in strengthening institutions like the GIS.

“This visit is not just symbolic. We are here to hear your concerns and understand your needs. That’s the only way we can genuinely help you fulfill your mandate,” he added.

Taking his turn, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, expressed deep appreciation to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior for its continued support to the Service over the years.

"We are indeed happy to welcome you to our premises today. It’s a visit we’ve long anticipated, though we had to reschedule once due to other pressing engagements. We are grateful that you are here with us now," Mr. Amadu said in his welcome address.

He acknowledged the strong working relationship that exists between the GIS and the Committee, noting that it has been instrumental in pushing legislative instruments, budgetary approvals, and policy decisions beneficial to national security and border control.

"As someone who served on the Management team from 2017 to 2021, I’ve been part of several engagements with your Committee and can testify to the immense support you’ve offered—especially behind the scenes—during target hearings and when laying supplementary legislation before Parliament," he stated.

According to Mr. Amadu, the GIS is currently undergoing key reforms aimed at strengthening its mandate to protect Ghana’s borders and enhance internal security. He hinted at efforts to “fully democratise all our processes and improve troop morale,” stressing the need for continued collaboration with Parliament to achieve strategic transformation.

He also assured the Committee of a comprehensive presentation, which would offer insight into the Service’s current operations, major challenges, and opportunities for growth.

The visit allowed the Committee members to engage directly with the GIS leadership and discuss its operations, future plans, and key priorities.

It also provided an opportunity for the Committee to offer guidance and express their support for the GIS’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national security.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith