The Ministry described the report as "riddled with non-factual representations" and "an unwarranted slur on Ghana," disputing the validity of these assertions.
According to the Reuters report, Ghanaian authorities appeared to be "largely turning a blind eye to insurgents crossing from neighbouring Burkina Faso to obtain food, fuel, and even explosives, as well as receiving medical treatment in local hospitals." The Ministry, however, firmly denied these allegations, describing them as "entirely unfounded, misleading and rather curious." The Ministry pointed out that the Reuters article was based on a discredited publication by the Netherlands Institute of International Relations (Clingendael), which allegedly suggested that Ghana's lack of terrorist attacks was due to a "non-aggression understanding" with militant groups, allowing for supply lines and places of rest. "The Ministry categorically refutes these claims," a spokesperson stated, adding that this notion of passive alignment with militants was "nothing but an unwarranted slur on Ghana." In August 2024, the Ministry reportedly held a series of meetings with Clingendael researchers and their local partners to address inaccuracies in Clingendael's draft report.
During this meeting, it was agreed that the Ministry would submit a paper correcting misrepresentations of Ghana's security stance, which would then be reflected in the final report. "The Ministry duly submitted this response paper, clarifying Ghana's counter-terrorism position and refuting the unsubstantiated claims about any passive alignment with militant activities," officials confirmed.
The Ministry went on to emphasise the rigorous counter-terrorism measures Ghana has in place, particularly along the northern border.