Gov’t withdraws Military protection for unauthorized civilians
The Ministry of Defence, as part of ongoing efforts to restore discipline and accountability within Ghana’s security framework, has withdrawn military protection for all civilians not legally entitled to such services, including public officials, former ministers, and businesspersons.
Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah announced in a post on his official Facebook page on Tuesday, July 15, describing the move as part of the government’s broader Reset agenda aimed at promoting transparency and responsible governance.
“As part of our Reset agenda to restore discipline and accountability, we’ve withdrawn military protection for civilians (including public officials, former ministers, businessmen, and women, among others) who are not entitled to it,” he stated.
The Minister emphasized that this decision is intended to end the abuse of military personnel for private gain, a practice he described as inconsistent with the professional obligations of the armed forces.
“This decision aims to STOP the misuse of military personnel for personal gain,” he wrote.
Dr. Omane Boamah also warned that any military personnel found engaging in unauthorized guard or escort duties would face severe consequences.
“Therefore, military personnel found providing unauthorized guard duties, and any other unauthorized duties will face far-reaching consequences,” he cautioned.
Calling for collective responsibility, the Defence Minister urged citizens to support the initiative in order to ensure a more disciplined and just use of state security resources.
“Let’s work together to promote a more disciplined and responsible use of our military resources. We’re committed to transparency and accountability. Let’s build a more responsible and just society together,” he concluded.
The move is seen as part of President John Mahama’s broader strategy to reset governance structures and reduce the politicization and misuse of state institutions.
