In a landmark decision aimed at restoring professionalism and integrity within Ghana’s Armed Forces, the Ministry of Defence has withdrawn all military protection services extended to civilians without legal entitlement — including politicians, former ministers, and private businesspeople.
The move, announced by Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah via his official Facebook page, is part of a sweeping security sector reform under the Mahama administration’s broader Reset Agenda, which seeks to depoliticize the country’s security institutions and align them strictly with constitutional mandates.
“This decision aims to STOP the misuse of military personnel for personal gain,” Dr. Boamah declared. “We must restore discipline and accountability to protect the professionalism of our armed forces.”
Over the years, concerns have mounted about the inappropriate use of military personnel as personal bodyguards and escorts by well-connected individuals, including those outside the executive and security architecture. Critics have long warned that such practices erode military neutrality, weaken institutional discipline, and divert resources away from core national security duties.
The Defence Minister made it clear that any military personnel found engaging in unauthorized private duties would face “far-reaching consequences,” underscoring a new era of zero tolerance for abuse of rank and uniform.
Security analysts have lauded the move as a decisive step toward restoring the apolitical character of the Ghana Armed Forces, which are constitutionally mandated to serve the nation, not individuals.
“This is long overdue,” said retired security analyst Lt. Col. K. Adusei. “The use of uniformed soldiers to project private power or political privilege undermines public confidence in our defence institutions.”
The withdrawal of unauthorized escorts is not only a cost-saving measure but also a symbolic realignment of state power, sending a strong message about transparency, professionalism, and equal access to national security services.
Dr. Boamah called on the public to support the initiative and take collective ownership of reforms aimed at building a more accountable and lawful society. “Let’s work together to promote a more disciplined and responsible use of our military resources,” he urged.
The directive is seen as a defining moment in the government’s efforts to disentangle the armed forces from partisan influence and reestablish their standing as neutral protectors of the state.
