The upcoming general elections in Ghana are raising serious concerns after reports surfaced about the alleged deployment of masked military personnel to certain regions of the country. These reports suggest a plan to intimidate voters in key areas like the Volta Region and Northern Region, potentially discouraging people from exercising their democratic rights.
According to sources, 12 snipers from the 64th Infantry Battalion of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have allegedly been sent on this covert mission. These soldiers, reportedly dressed in full military uniforms and masked to hide their identities, were said to have been seen at Terminal 2 of Kotoka International Airport in Accra. Eyewitnesses say their heavy luggage, which allegedly contained weapons, raised suspicions. Videos and pictures of the soldiers at the airport have gone viral, sparking widespread speculation about their purpose.
One major point of controversy is that the soldiers reportedly tried to board a civilian airline to Tamale with their weapons. This is unusual, as military operations are typically carried out using military transport, such as planes from the Air Force Base. This development has led many to question whether the mission was officially approved by the Military High Command.
What makes this situation even more concerning is that the Ghana Armed Forces had recently announced that no military personnel would be stationed at polling stations during the December 7 elections. The Army Commander, Major General Bismarck Kwasi Onwona, is said to have sanctioned the operation. However, it is unclear if this aligns with the broader directives from the GAF, which emphasize maintaining peace and avoiding voter intimidation.
The alleged operation is believed to be led by Lt. Col. Minta-Agyemang, a former Commanding Officer of the 11 Mechanized Battalion. Reports suggest that the goal of these masked soldiers may be to create confusion at polling stations by firing gunshots, thus scaring people away from voting.
In Tamale, where the soldiers are reportedly stationed, they are said to be hosted by the Commanding Officer of the Airborne Unit. However, the Northern Command has not requested their presence, adding to the mystery of their deployment. Some insiders have even questioned the chain of command and the intent behind this mission.
Further complicating the situation are reports of military activities involving the transportation of unidentified goods. Videos show items being offloaded from a military aircraft at an airbase and later moved into vehicles, including an ambulance. Speculations range from the transport of weapons to electoral materials or even money meant to influence voters.
The Ghana Armed Forces has tried to reassure the public that it is committed to ensuring a peaceful and transparent election. A statement issued on December 1, 2024, by Brigadier General Emmanuel Aggrey-Quashie, the Director of General Public Relations, emphasized that no soldiers would be present at polling stations unless requested by the Ghana Police Service. The GAF stated that its role would be limited to standby support, with the primary responsibility for election security resting with the police.
The statement also urged the public to report any suspicious activity involving individuals impersonating military personnel or wearing military uniforms at polling stations. Emergency toll-free numbers were provided to encourage citizens to report such incidents.
Despite these assurances, the alleged deployment of masked soldiers has left many Ghanaians worried. Observers and stakeholders are calling for urgent clarification from the Ghana Armed Forces and the government to ensure that the elections are conducted in a free and fair environment.
This situation could have serious implications for Ghana’s democratic process. If voters feel threatened or unsafe, it could lead to low voter turnout, especially in areas seen as strongholds of certain political parties. Trust in the electoral process and in national institutions like the military could also be damaged.
The Ghana Armed Forces has a long-standing reputation for professionalism and neutrality. Any deviation from this could undermine its credibility and the stability of the country. As Ghana approaches the December 7 elections, all eyes are on the government and the military to address these allegations and provide transparent answers.
Ghanaians deserve to cast their votes without fear. Elections are the foundation of democracy, and any attempts to disrupt or influence them through intimidation must be swiftly addressed. For now, the public waits anxiously, hoping that their voices will be heard and their votes will count in an environment of peace and fairness.
The Herald is closely monitoring this developing story and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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