Faith Nyasuguta
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has firmly denied claims that it intends to seize control of the country if the upcoming general elections on December 7, 2024, turn violent. The military’s response comes after Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey, Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Governance, was quoted in a media report suggesting that the GAF had threatened to take over the government if violence escalated beyond the control of the Ghana Police Service.
In a statement released on August 23, 2024, and signed by Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director-General of Public Relations, the GAF labeled these allegations as entirely false. The statement emphasized that the GAF has never made any such threats or held press conferences in 2016 or 2020 where such claims were supposedly made. The military made it clear that its role is solely to assist the Ghana Police Service when requested and that this assistance does not imply an intention to overthrow the government.
The statement also stressed that the GAF has no interest in staging a coup and will actively prevent any attempts by individuals, groups, or organizations to unlawfully take control of the government. The GAF further warned against the misuse of its name to spread misinformation and incite fear among the public.
As tensions rise ahead of the December elections, the spread of misinformation has become a significant concern. The GAF urged civil society groups and the media to refrain from heightening political tensions by associating the military with any potential threats to democracy. The military called for unity among all stakeholders to ensure that citizens can participate in the electoral process in an atmosphere of peace and security.
The GAF’s statement reflects a broader concern in West Africa, where recent years have seen a troubling resurgence of military coups. Countries like Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso have experienced coups, leading to instability and raising fears about the fragility of democracy in the region.
Ghana, which has long been considered a stable democracy, now faces the challenge of maintaining this reputation amidst growing political tensions.
The GAF’s firm stance against any form of coup is an important reassurance for Ghanaians and the international community. By distancing itself from any suggestion of military intervention in the democratic process, the GAF is reinforcing its commitment to upholding Ghana’s democratic institutions.
As the December elections approach, the focus remains on ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process. The GAF, alongside other peace-loving institutions and individuals, looks forward to a peaceful election and continues to call on all groups to promote an environment of calm and respect for the rule of law.
This clear and unequivocal rejection of coup rumors by the Ghana Armed Forces sends a strong message that Ghana’s democracy, though tested, remains resilient and protected from the instability that has plagued other parts of West Africa.
RELATED:
