Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has announced a sweeping move to withdraw all military protection from civilians who are not officially entitled to it, including public officials, former ministers, and businesspeople.
The announcement, made via a public statement on Dr. Boamah’s official Facebook page, is part of what he described as a broader #ResetAgenda aimed at restoring discipline, accountability, and proper use of military resources.
“We’ve withdrawn military protection for civilians… who are not entitled to it,” the Minister stated. “This decision aims to STOP the misuse of military personnel for personal gain.”
The move signals a major shift in how security is administered across the country, particularly among the political and business elite, many of whom have controversially benefited from military escorts long after leaving office.
Dr. Boamah warned that any military personnel found performing unauthorized guard duties would face “far-reaching consequences.”
“Let’s work together to promote a more disciplined and responsible use of our military resources,” he added.
The policy is expected to affect dozens of individuals who have relied on military protection for non-official reasons, a practice widely criticized by civil society organisations as a misuse of state resources.
The Defence Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, hinting that reforms would continue under the Armed Forces Council’s watch.
“We’re committed to transparency and accountability. Let’s build a more responsible and just society together,” Dr. Boamah concluded.
