Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence, has called for caution in deploying military personnel to handle civilian matters, emphasising that the military’s primary responsibility is to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.
Speaking to members of the Defence Press Corps (DPC) during an address at the Ministry of Defence, Dr Omane Boamah highlighted that the military should not be overexposed to civil unrest or internal security issues, as this could undermine their core mission of protecting the nation from external threats.
The Minister pointed out that relying on the military for tasks typically handled by the police could blur the lines between the functions of the two forces, potentially affecting the relationship between the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the civilian population.
“How often do we find a soldier holding a handcuff?” Dr Omane Boamah asked, adding: “Arrest is not even part of their training; they may call it ‘capture’ when they do it.”
He reiterated the need to keep the military’s involvement in civilian affairs to a minimum, stating that the Ghana Police Service, with its well-trained personnel and specialised units, is better equipped to handle internal security and public order situations.
“The Ghana Police has enough personnel trained for peacekeeping and law enforcement,” he added. “Let’s try as much as possible to keep the Ghana Armed Forces out of non-threatening events.”
Focus on Modernisation and Welfare of the Ghana Armed Forces
Dr Omane Boamah also spoke about his ministry’s plans to complete unfinished projects initiated by previous administrations, with a focus on improving the welfare of personnel in the Ghana Armed Forces.
One of the major concerns addressed was the over 17,000 accommodation deficit faced by GAF personnel, as well as the deteriorating state of existing housing facilities within military barracks.
He assured that steps would be taken to address these challenges, including the regeneration of dilapidated barracks and the construction of new accommodation units for personnel.
The Minister emphasized the importance of finding innovative financing solutions to reduce reliance on public-private partnerships, which have been commonly used in the past.
“We will build on the successes of our predecessors to ensure that the Ghana Armed Forces are highly motivated, well-trained, and equipped to continue their modernization,” Dr. Omane Boamah stated.
During the event, the Dean of the Defence Press Corps, Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey, made a formal request to the Minister for support in helping the DPC acquire a common identity card. This initiative aims to facilitate easier access to various military units and installations, enabling journalists to carry out their work more effectively as Defence correspondents.
Gold-Alorgbey also suggested that the Ministry assist in organizing quarterly familiarization and educational tours, as well as informal get-togethers for DPC members.
These events would provide an opportunity for journalists to become more acquainted with military infrastructure, equipment, and the daily operations of the Armed Forces.
“Every three months, we would like to visit military units, such as Michelle Camp, to get a better understanding of the equipment they use and the operations they carry out,” said Gold-Alorgbey. “This will help us as journalists to improve our reporting and relationship with the Armed Forces.”
His suggestions were supported by other members of the DPC, including former Dean Kofi Ampeah-Woode, who appealed for financial assistance for the group. The request included the establishment of a health insurance scheme for members, sitting stipends for those on salaries, and other benefits to support the well-being of Defence journalists.
The meeting between the Minister and the Defence Press Corps served as an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the Ghana Armed Forces and the media, ensuring that both sides work collaboratively for the benefit of the nation.
The Minister expressed his commitment to improving the welfare of the Armed Forces while also fostering better cooperation with the media to provide accurate and timely information to the public.
Dr. Omane Boamah’s address underscores the importance of maintaining clear distinctions between the roles of the military and the police, as well as the need for continued investment in the modernisation and welfare of the Ghana Armed Forces.
