Zongo youth demand fairness and transparency in McDan-GACL dispute
A coalition of Zongo youth groups in the Ashanti Region has called for fair treatment of Ghanaian businessman Daniel McKorley, popularly known as McDan, and urged authorities to protect indigenous businesses.
Addressing the media at the Kumasi Central Mosque, a member of the group, Sumaila Ali, expressed concern over recent developments involving Mr McKorley’s business interests.
He said, “We have taken note of disturbing developments surrounding the reported takeover of a private jet terminal of the McDan Group under questionable circumstances.”
The concerns follow an ongoing dispute between McDan Aviation and the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), which stems from the company’s eviction from Terminal 1, the withdrawal of its Fixed Base Operator licence, and the repossession of land.
GACL maintains that McDan Aviation owes more than US$3.99 million and GH¢13,000 in unpaid fees dating back to 2020. In May 2025, an Accra High Court granted GACL possession of 16 acres of land occupied by McDan subsidiaries, citing breaches of lease agreements.
McDan Aviation has since filed a suit challenging the termination of its licence, while GACL has secured a perpetual injunction restraining the company from further interference.
Mr Ali said the coalition recognises Mr McKorley’s contributions to economic development and social stability, particularly within Zongo communities.
He cited initiatives such as scholarships for needy but brilliant students, financial support for women entrepreneurs, youth empowerment programmes, and the sponsorship of unity football tournaments.
“These interventions have directly impacted thousands of lives and strengthened the socio-economic fabric of Zongo communities which remains as a vital constituency and heartbeat of the nation,” he said.
He added, “it is therefore concerning that a figure who has consistently invested in Ghana and uplifted marginalised communities may be subjected to treatment that could destabilise his operations and discourage other local investors”.
The group urged the government to ensure transparency, fairness and due process in all dealings involving the McDan Group, cautioning against actions that could be perceived as unjust or politically motivated.
It also called for stronger support for Ghanaian businesses whose investments create employment and retain wealth within the country.
In addition, the coalition appealed to religious leaders, traditional authorities and civil society organisations to intervene to promote justice, fairness and national unity.
“We believe that safeguarding the interests of patriotic Ghanaian investors like Mr McKorley ultimately serves the broader national interest,” he stressed.
