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The military stands as the wall against external threats, safeguarding its citizens and sovereignty across sea, land, and air. Traditionally respected and feared, the uniformed personnel commanded respect and instilled admiration, not just within Ghana but globally. Yet, a disconcerting trend has emerged, challenging this age-old perception.
Once revered and feared, Ghana's military personnel now find themselves facing an unexpected threat—violence from the very citizens they've sworn to protect.
The tragic lynching of Major Maxwell Mahama in Denkyira-Obuasi back in May 2017 shattered the illusion of invulnerability surrounding the military. It was a heart-breaking event that shook the nation to its core.
Since then, we thought we might not have such a situation occur again due to the condemnation against the people and community involved. However, similar incidents have continued to occur, each one leaving a trail of unanswered questions and grief.
In March 2023, Trooper Imoro Sheriff was mercilessly stabbed during his visit to his parents in Ashaiman-Taifa, with his assailants still at large, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions and grief.
The most recent incident that happened a few weeks ago, the tragic shooting of Lance Corporal Michael Danso in April 2024, is a glaring reminder of the dangers faced by those in uniform.
These incidents force us to confront a difficult question: Why are those tasked with defending the nation falling victim to violence from the very people they serve?
The answer is complex, rooted in countless socioeconomic and cultural factors. The fading of traditional respect for authority, coupled with widespread discontent and disappointment, has created an environment where trust between civilians, law enforcement, and the military is increasingly strained.
The recent sequence of violence against military personnel is not just an isolated issue; it's an indication of deeper societal challenges. It raises serious concerns about the state of security in our nation and highlights the urgent need for dialogue, understanding, and proactive measures to address these underlying issues.
As the nation struggles with this new reality, we must come together as a society to support our military and law enforcement officers and work towards building a safer, more unified future for all.
We can only navigate these challenges through collaboration, empathy, and hope to restore faith in our institutions. No military personnel deserve to die like Major Mahama, Trooper Sheriff, and Lance Corporal Danso. We hope not to hear the news of another soldier down in such a disheartening way.
