Former Deputy Minister for Defense, Major Derrick Oduro, has added his voice to the growing debate over the need for a military regime in Ghana, a discussion fueled by recent developments in Burkina Faso and other African countries.
Speaking on Denkyiraman Radio’s National Agenda program, Major Oduro addressed concerns raised by a recent Afrobarometer survey, which revealed that 26% of Ghanaians would support military governance similar to what currently exists in Burkina Faso.
According to the report, these citizens believe that Burkina Faso has made significant progress since the military coup that brought Ibrahim Traoré to power.
Major Derrick Oduro, however, strongly rejected the idea, emphasizing that Ghana’s constitution firmly upholds democratic governance and mandates that Presidents must be elected through democratic means.
“No matter the challenges facing any government, the change of leadership must always occur through democratic processes,” he stressed.
He further warned that military regimes have historically brought tragic outcomes to Ghana, recalling periods when the constitution was suspended, laws were unenforced, and citizens were subjected to brutal treatment.
“A military regime suspends the constitution. No law is enforced. It becomes a revolutionary process where people are treated without mercy,” Major Oduro stated.
He urged Ghanaians not to support or advocate for military rule, describing it as a “taboo” that tarnishes Ghana’s democratic history.
Major Oduro also called for vigilance against individuals who publicly advocate for coups or undermine the morale of the security services.
“There will always be people ready to shed blood and plan for a coup. Those who release surveys or publicly discuss issues that threaten national security should be summoned by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) for questioning and warned about the consequences of their actions,” he cautioned.
