Deputy Minister-designate for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, has vowed to prioritize civil-military relations and work towards rebuilding trust between the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the civilian population. His commitment comes in response to past tensions, particularly the military’s response to the killing of soldier Imoro Sherrif in Ashaiman in March 2023.
During his vetting on Friday, February 28, Genfi acknowledged that while the Ghana Armed Forces enjoys widespread public respect, certain unfortunate incidents have led to strained relations that must be addressed with urgency.
The killing of Imoro Sherrif, who was fatally stabbed by unknown assailants while returning home, sparked military retaliation in Ashaiman, where soldiers carried out brutal raids on residents in search of suspects. The incident deepened mistrust between civilians and the military, highlighting the need for improved engagement and understanding between both parties.
Genfi outlined his vision for bridging this divide, emphasizing the need for proactive civil-military dialogue. He proposed closer collaboration between the Armed Forces and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to educate the public on the military’s role and foster mutual respect.
“I am committed to assisting my minister in fostering a better relationship between the Armed Forces and the civilian population. The military must engage communities through local leadership to create awareness about its mandate while ensuring that respect for security institutions is upheld,” he stated.
Beyond enhancing civil-military relations, Genfi also reaffirmed his dedication to equipping the Armed Forces with the necessary resources to ensure they remain combat-ready to defend Ghana against external threats.
As he prepares to assume his role, Genfi’s approach signals a shift towards prioritizing dialogue and rebuilding public confidence in the military while ensuring national security remains uncompromised.
