PSGH Condemns Cape Coast MCE Over Forced Closure of Pharmacy During National Sanitation Exercise

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has issued a stern condemnation of the Cape Coast Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), George Justice Arthur, following the forced closure of Cape Coast Pharmacy during a National General Clean-up Exercise. The incident, which occurred on July 10, gained public attention after a video surfaced showing the MCE ordering the facility to shut down and reportedly evicting patients who were seeking medical assistance. In a statement signed by PSGH President, Pharm. Paul Owusu Donkor, the society expressed grave concerns over the actions of the local official, describing the disruption as both harmful and unnecessary for the community's well-being. Central to the PSGH's grievance is the classification of community pharmacies as vital Primary Healthcare Providers. The society emphasized that these facilities are often the first point of call for individuals in need of urgent health interventions and essential medications. By forcing a pharmacy to close, even for a sanitation exercise, the MCE’s actions were seen as a direct threat to patient care and a misunderstanding of the critical role pharmacies play in the national health infrastructure. The PSGH argued that interrupting medical services could lead to dire consequences for patients in emergency situations or those requiring continuous medication. To prevent a recurrence of such confrontations, the PSGH has called for a shift from confrontation to consultation. They urged local government officials and municipal authorities to prioritize dialogue with health professionals when planning city-wide activities. While the society supports national sanitation efforts, they maintain that essential services must be granted formal recognition and exemptions to ensure continuity of care. Furthermore, the PSGH advised pharmacy owners to proactively manage their staff duties during such exercises, ensuring that while the surroundings are kept clean, the core mission of providing life-saving healthcare is never compromised.