Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Francis Afenyo-Markin, has urged the government to immediately halt the use of artificial intelligence (AI)-based assessments in the recruitment of personnel for the security services.
Speaking in Parliament, Afenyo-Markin expressed concerns that relying on AI tools for screening candidates could lead to unfairness, discrimination, and potential bias in the selection process. He argued that human judgment and professional vetting remain essential for sensitive roles in the security sector, which require integrity, discretion, and accountability.
According to him, AI systems, while technologically advanced, are not infallible and may overlook critical human factors such as character, ethics, and practical experience. He cautioned that overdependence on AI could compromise the quality of recruits, potentially affecting national security.
Afenyo-Markin called on the Ministry of the Interior and relevant security agencies to review the AI testing framework and ensure that recruitment processes remain transparent, merit-based, and inclusive. He emphasized that technology should complement, not replace, traditional methods that evaluate the suitability of candidates for security roles.
The MP also highlighted the need for a comprehensive public consultation involving civil society, professional associations, and experts before introducing any AI-based system in recruitment. He stressed that the adoption of AI tools must be carefully balanced against ethical considerations, privacy concerns, and the potential social impact on applicants.
Concluding his remarks, Afenyo-Markin reiterated that national security is too critical to be left solely in the hands of automated systems. He urged lawmakers and stakeholders to prioritize fairness, accuracy, and accountability in all recruitment procedures.
This call adds to growing debates across Ghana and beyond about the role of AI in hiring processes, especially in sectors where human judgment and ethical responsibility are paramount.
