Stop Bullying Civilians – Nana Addo Tells Soldiers

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has send a strong signal to the Personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) to desist from bullying civilians.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of some 138 new personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces at the Accra Military Academy on Friday, 19 October 2018, Nana Akufo-Addo urged the newly-commissioned army men and women to be disciplined.

There have been several reports in the media space of uniformed men intimidating and bullying civilians. The President of the Republic as well used the opportunity to assure the Forces that government is taking steps to address their challenges.

“You must bear in mind that the Ghana Armed Forces, over the years, have striven to maintain a healthy relationship with the civilian population as a tenet of national integration and cohesion. However, there have been a few unfavourable media reports about the actions of a few military personnel.

“I’m reminding you today that your commissioning into the armed forces places a great responsibility on you to guard against the temptation of using the uniform to intimidate your civilian counterparts who are your natural partners in the development of our nation, and whose taxes provide the means for your sustenance as members of the armed forces.

“I entreat you to put into practice the leadership instilled in you at the academy,” Nana Akufo-Addo said.

According to the President, uniform of the Ghana Armed Forces is a symbol of authority hence its dignity must be preserved through their daily duty of work.