"GAF Addresses Public Concerns Over Military Involvement in Parliamentary Proceedings"

"The Ghana Armed Force (GAF) Addresses Public Concerns Over Military Involvement in Parliamentary Proceedings that the deployment of the military to parliament was based on Speakers request.

In a detailed press release dated October 22, 2024, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) provided important clarifications regarding their recent deployment to Parliament. The military presence, which stirred considerable attention, was the result of a formal request from the Speaker of Parliament, aimed at enhancing security measures during a routine procedure. 

Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quarshie emphasized that the deployment of GAF personnel to the parliamentary premises on Tuesday was a standard protocol designed to maintain the safety and integrity of parliamentary sessions. He explained that these measures included comprehensive Canine and Bomb Sweeps of the Chamber, which are integral to ensuring a secure environment for Members of Parliament and the public alike.

"The decision to conduct these sweeps is not arbitrary; rather, it is part of our commitment to uphold the security of our national institutions," Brigadier General Aggrey-Quarshie stated. . It is a necessary precautionary step to mitigate any potential threats."

The Brigadier General further reassured the public and the media that the presence of military personnel at the Grand Arena was strictly limited to conducting these essential security checks. He stressed that their role was not to interfere with parliamentary proceedings or to exert influence over the legislative process. Instead, their mission was singular: to meticulously inspect the facility for any explosive devices or harmful substances that could pose a risk to the lawmakers and the broader community.

This proactive approach is part of a broader strategy by the GAF to ensure that the legislative environment remains conducive for debate and decision-making. As political tensions occasionally rise in various parts of the world, such measures are deemed necessary to instill confidence among the citizens regarding the safety of their elected representatives. 

The announcement has been met with varied reactions from the public and political analysts. Some view the military’s involvement as an essential step towards safeguarding the democratic processes in the country, while others express concerns about the implications of military presence in civilian spaces. Nevertheless, Brigadier General Aggrey-Quarshie’s statement underscores the GAF's commitment to transparency and the importance of maintaining public trust in national security efforts.

In conclusion, the Ghana Armed Forces reaffirmed their dedication to protecting the nation’s democratic institutions. As Parliament continues its critical work in shaping the future of Ghana, the military’s role, while discreet, is pivotal in ensuring that safety remains a top priority in the pursuit of legislative excellence.

DEPLOYMENT OF MILITARY WAS ON SPEAKER OF PARLIAMENT'S REQUEST - GAF

Media reports suggest that military personnel have been deployed to the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) to disrupt Parliament's Fifth Meeting of Session, which has raised concerns for the security situation in Ghana.

The GAF wishes to emphasize that these reports are deceptive and should be treated with the utmost care and consideration. Additionally,

The reputation of GAF is marred by the dissemination of such misinformation.

On Monday 21. The Clerk of Parliament, via Right Honourable Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin in October 2024, requested security assistance from GAF for the routine Canine and Bomb Sweeps of the Chamber.

On Tuesdays, which are typically the first sitting day of the week when Members of Parliament convene outside the traditional Parliament House, this is followed as a rule.

To be clear, there was no GAF staff present at the Grand Arena to disrupt Parliamentary proceedings.... They were responsible for conducting these routine checks to ensure the facility's safety, identifying any explosive devices or hazardous materials.

GAF remains committed to the welfare and well-being of all citizens and will always undertake assignments that aim to ensure the security and protection of everyone, regardless of their background. Likewise, we call on media outlets to avoid spreading false information and to report effectively on issues that are important to the public. "

RT HON. SPEAKER  REQUEST

From Tuesday, 22nd October, 2024 onwards, the Rt Hon Speaker respectfully requests that the Ghana Armed Forces provide security assistance for Parliamentary Business.

In response to the Hon Minority Leader's request to declare the seats of four Members of Parliament vacant, as per articles 97 (1) (g) and (b) of the Constitution, this demand is required by the pronouncements made by Rt Hon Speaker on Thursday 17 October, 2024.
According to the Rt Hon... The Speaker's Notice on the Commencement of the Fifth Meeting of Session has led to Parliament sitting at the Grand Arena of Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).. The Rt Hon Speaker would be grateful if the Ghana Armed Forces could conduct canine and bomb sweeps of the Chamber on the first sitting day of this week, which is typically Tuesday.
For additional details, please consult Lt Col Samuel K Ofosu (Rtd) and Wg Cdr Frederick Bawa (Lrd), who are the Deputy Marshals of Parliament on 0244266390 and 024722920 respectively.

The Rt. Hon Speaker, I trust in your regular cooperation.'