Uphold discipline, protect the image of Ghana Armed Forces - Deputy Defence Minister

The Deputy Minister of Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, has issued a strong caution to officers and men of the Ghana Armed Forces to guard against acts that could bring the image of the institution into disrepute.

Speaking at the 2025 Land Combat Power Demonstration at the Bundase Training Camp on Friday, Genfi emphasised that discipline remains the cornerstone of military service and the single most defining value of the Ghana Armed Forces.

He reminded troops that the privilege of wearing the uniform comes with an unyielding obligation to conduct themselves with integrity, restraint, and absolute respect for the rule of law, whether on duty or off duty.

“Every soldier and officer is expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct, respect the rule of law, and safeguard the rights of all citizens whether on duty or off duty,” he stated.

“Any actions that bring the image of our revered Ghana Armed Forces into disrepute will be dealt with decisively, in accordance with the regulations of the Ghana Armed Forces and the laws of the Republic.”

The Deputy Minister, representing the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, noted that the government continues to hold the Ghana Armed Forces in high esteem because of its professionalism, discipline, and contribution to national and international peacekeeping efforts.

He, however, cautioned that such hard-earned respect must be preserved through consistent adherence to military ethics and lawful conduct.

“The respect the Ghana Armed Forces commands across the world was not built in a day it was earned through years of sacrifice, honour, and discipline. Let us not allow individual misconduct to stain that legacy,” he cautioned.

Genfi further noted that while the government is committed to retooling and improving the welfare of troops under President Mahama’s Resetting Ghana Agenda, such investments must be matched by a renewed commitment to professionalism and discipline at all levels.

“Government’s commitment to modernise and retool the Ghana Armed Forces must go hand in hand with personal responsibility and institutional integrity,” he said. “We can only justify these investments if our conduct continues to reflect the finest traditions of military service.”

The Deputy Minister’s remarks come as part of a renewed emphasis on discipline, accountability, and leadership within the ranks, a call echoed by many Ghanaians following a recent incident at Burma Camp, where a soldier was seen assaulting a pharmacy assistant and a civilian without provocation.

The Ghana Armed Forces has since confirmed the arrest of the individual and said investigations are currently underway.

In furtherance of his firm admonition, Brogya Genfi concluded his remarks by urging all officers and soldiers to uphold the dignity of their profession, protect the image of the Armed Forces, and serve the nation with honour and loyalty.