Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) of Ghana, Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to protecting the Constitution and the sovereign will of the people. During a courtesy call by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Vice Admiral Amoama addressed concerns about coups in West Africa, stating that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is resolute in safeguarding democracy and will not engage in activities that threaten peace and democracy.
He emphasized that coup d’états are a thing of the past, and the GAF’s mandate is to protect the territorial integrity of the state, not governance. He highlighted that the military respects the democratic process, and if the people decide they want a change in government, they have the opportunity to do so through elections every four years.
Vice Admiral Amoama commended the media for their role in upholding the will of the people in the country and acknowledged the importance of a strong relationship between the GAF and the GJA. He encouraged responsible journalism, highlighting the need to consult with the military on security issues before publishing stories to ensure accuracy and avoid drawing the GAF into political matters.
The CDS emphasized the GAF’s open-door policy and its commitment to engaging with various institutions, including the media. He cited the positive relationship between the GAF and the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) as an example of successful collaboration.
The President of the GJA, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, expressed the media’s readiness to enhance its relationship with the military and contribute to the country’s democratic growth. He assured the GAF of the GJA’s commitment to maintaining a strong bond between the military and the media fraternity.
Overall, Vice Admiral Amoama’s statements underscored the GAF’s dedication to upholding democratic principles and its focus on safeguarding Ghana’s territorial integrity rather than involvement in politics. The meeting with the GJA aimed to strengthen communication and cooperation between the military and the media in Ghana.
