The government’s swift denouncement of a soldier’s behavior at a recent demolition site is a necessary and welcome step. Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu’s remarks, issued on behalf of the Mahama administration, rightly affirm the importance of a free press and the security of all citizens—both essential pillars of any functioning democracy.
But condemnation alone is insufficient.
The incident, which involved the attempted detainment of a journalist and the assault of a bystander, exposes a deeper and more troubling issue: a persistent disconnect between the duties of our security forces and the principles of democratic governance.
For too long, elements within Ghana’s military and police have operated with an outdated mindset—one that views civilians and reporters not as fellow citizens, but as potential threats to be subdued. This posture, a relic of past authoritarian regimes, has no place in a democratic society. It dishonors the sacrifices made for Ghana’s freedom and undermines the liberties enshrined in our constitution.
This is not an isolated case. A pattern of misconduct has emerged, revealing systemic deficiencies in training, oversight, and accountability. From excessive force to arbitrary detentions, these actions reflect a troubling ignorance of civil rights, the role of the media, and the ethical boundaries of law enforcement.
While the government’s call for investigation is a step in the right direction, it must be followed by a robust and enduring program of retraining. This initiative should go beyond conventional military drills to include comprehensive education in civics, human rights, and the democratic role of the press. Security personnel must understand that a camera is not a weapon, and a journalist is not an adversary. Their duty is to protect, not to harass; to serve, not to intimidate.
Moreover, Ghana must draw a clear line against the use of security forces for private or political purposes. Deploying soldiers for civilian operations such as demolitions invites abuse and confusion. It distorts command structures and fosters a dangerous sense of impunity among personnel who may believe they are acting with unchecked authority.
The Mahama administration now faces a critical opportunity—not only to hold individuals accountable for this incident, but to enact lasting reforms that prevent future violations. It is time to dismantle the “us versus them” mentality that persists in parts of our security apparatus. For Ghana to fulfill its democratic promise, our security forces must see themselves not as enforcers above the law, but as citizens within it—entrusted with the protection of all.
Anything less would be a betrayal of the democratic ideals we claim to uphold.
