Deployment of military was on Parliament's request - GAF clarifies

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has debunked media reports suggesting that military personnel were deployed to the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) to interfere with parliamentary proceedings.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, it clarified that the deployment was in response to a formal request from the Speaker of Parliament.

"On Monday, October 21, 2024, the Speaker of Parliament, Right Honourable Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, through the Clerk of Parliament, formally requested security assistance from the GAF for routine Canine and Bomb Sweeps of the Chamber," it noted.

GAF further indicated that their officers were deployed at the Grand Arena to ensure the safety of the facility.

"Their role was exclusively to conduct these routine sweeps to ensure the safety and security of the facility by checking for any explosive devices or harmful substances," it explained.

It reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of all citizens and urged media outlets to refrain from spreading false information.

"GAF remains committed to the welfare and well-being of all citizens and will always undertake assignments which aim at ensuring the security and safety of all and sundry. We also urge media houses to refrain from disseminating false information and to report responsibly on matters of public interest," it said.

Read the full statement below:



JKB/ ADG

Watch as Speaker Bagbin suspends Parliament indefinitely below: