The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has categorically dismissed reports suggesting that military personnel were deployed to disrupt proceedings of Parliament during its Fifth Meeting of the Fourth Session at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). In a press release dated October 22, 2024, and signed by the Director General of Public Relations, Col E. Aggrey-Quashie, GAF emphasized that these claims are false and intended to tarnish its reputation.
The release clarified that the Speaker of Parliament, Right Honourable Albert Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, had formally requested GAF’s assistance for a routine Canine and Bomb Sweep of the Chamber. This procedure is standard on the first sitting day of the week whenever Parliament convenes outside its traditional location, typically on Tuesdays.
GAF explained that the presence of military personnel at the Grand Arena on Monday, October 21, 2024, was solely to ensure the safety and security of the venue by checking for any potential explosive devices or harmful substances, not to interfere with the proceedings. GAF also urged media outlets to be responsible in their reporting, calling on them to refrain from spreading misinformation that could harm public trust in the institution.
This response from GAF followed public concern and apprehension when military personnel were spotted entering the Grand Arena early on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. The press release aims to set the record straight and reassure the public that the military remains committed to the security and well-being of all citizens.