The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has issued a stern warning to the public following the circulation of viral videos on social media platforms inciting violence against soldiers and other security personnel.
In a press release issued by Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director General of Public Relations at the General Headquarters in Burma Camp, Accra, the GAF emphasized that such calls are not only unlawful but also pose a significant threat to the nation’s security and stability.
The GAF unequivocally condemned any form of incitement or encouragement of violence against its personnel. The statement highlighted the importance of maintaining law and order and urged the public to refrain from making such unlawful utterances. The GAF stressed that promoting violence undermines the safety and stability of Ghana and erodes the peace that the nation has worked hard to maintain.
“We wish to assure all and sundry GAF will continue to perform its duties of safeguarding the security of the state and the protection of civilians. It is also crucial to understand that personnel of GAF and sister security agencies are committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights in the execution of their duties.”
Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director General of Public Relations
The statement assured the public that any misconduct by soldiers would be addressed appropriately, with errant personnel being reported to the nearest police station or military barracks for disciplinary action.
The press release also addressed the legal and ethical boundaries of self-defense for soldiers. It clarified that soldiers, like any other individuals, have the right to defend themselves when faced with imminent threats or attacks.
In scenarios where immediate danger to their lives or the lives of others is present, soldiers are authorized to use necessary and proportionate force. However, the GAF cautioned that the outcomes of such confrontations could be dire and stressed the importance of avoiding these situations altogether.
Commitment to National Service and Public Engagement
The GAF reiterated its unwavering commitment to professionalism, integrity, and service to the nation. The armed forces assured the public of their continued cooperation with other security agencies to protect and defend Ghana’s interests while respecting the rights and dignity of all citizens. Emphasizing an open-door policy, the GAF encouraged the public to channel their concerns or grievances through the Department of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces.
“It is against this premise that GAF wishes to remind and caution the public that assaulting or attacking soldiers is a grave offense punishable by law. It implores all citizens to respect, cooperate, and support our soldiers and to refrain from engaging in acts of violence or incitement against them.”
Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director General of Public Relations
Following comments made by Ernest Frimpong, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Amenfi East constituency in the Western Region, urging illegal miners to resist arrest by soldiers, several soldiers were attacked, resulting in injuries to one of them. Ernest Frimpong’s comments were deemed inciting, leading to the subsequent attacks on the soldiers.
In response to these incidents, GAF issued a press release warning the public against confronting and attacking soldiers, emphasizing the potential for unpleasant and dire outcomes of such confrontations.
In the wake of the press release, public reaction has been mixed. While many Ghanaians have expressed support for the GAF’s stance and condemned the calls for violence, others have called for greater accountability and transparency from the armed forces. Social media platforms have seen a surge in discussions about the relationship between the military and civilians, with calls for more community engagement and dialogue to address underlying tensions.
The GAF’s press release served as a crucial reminder of the need for mutual respect and cooperation between the armed forces and the civilian population. It called for unity and collaboration to ensure the nation’s continued peace and stability. The GAF’s message underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and working together to address any issues or grievances through appropriate channels.
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