Military’s Role in Ghana’s Elections Must Be Limited, Says Dr. Ibn Chambas
Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, has emphasized the need for a restrained military presence during Ghana's December 7 elections. Speaking to Joy News, he urged the military to avoid direct involvement in the electoral process, highlighting the importance of fostering voter confidence and maintaining a peaceful election environment. According to Dr. Chambas, the military’s role should strictly complement the police, intervening only in extreme situations and at the police's request. He commended the Ghana Armed Forces for their commitment to staying away from polling stations and other sensitive electoral duties. "The hierarchy of the Ghana Armed Forces has consistently assured that they will not be directly involved in securing electoral personnel, materials, or polling stations," he noted, reinforcing the need for a supportive but non-intrusive approach.
Dr. Chambas further warned that unnecessary military interference could harm the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. He cited incidents during Ghana’s 2020 elections, where an overbearing military presence led to tragic consequences, stressing that such mistakes should not be repeated. He called for adherence to strict protocols, ensuring that any military action is measured and only executed under extraordinary circumstances. “The evidence globally shows that open and transparent election processes significantly enhance the acceptance of results,” Dr. Chambas stated. He advised security personnel to follow their training and contribute to a peaceful and credible electoral process. Additionally, he emphasized that accountability should be enforced for any actions that go against orders or disrupt the electoral environment.
The seasoned diplomat expressed hope that this year’s elections would be marked by improved cooperation among security agencies and respect for democratic principles. Highlighting the critical role of transparency, he underscored the necessity of police leadership in maintaining order during elections. “The police should lead, and the military should only step in if the situation overwhelms the police,” Dr. Chambas reiterated. He urged all stakeholders, including the military and political actors, to work together to ensure that Ghana's elections are peaceful and credible. Concluding his remarks, he expressed optimism that lessons learned from past mistakes would guide this year's process, fostering trust and ensuring stability.
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