The militarization of internal security in Ghana is a subject that warrants critical attention due to its implications for the nation's democratic framework.

While the responsibility for maintaining internal security traditionally falls upon the police force, the increasing deployment of military personnel in roles typically reserved for civilian law enforcement is raising significant concerns.

In a democratic state such as Ghana, the police service is constitutionally mandated, as in Article 200, to protect citizens and maintain law and order. This function is inherently civilian, necessitating an approach centered on community engagement, respect for human rights, and adherence to legal norms.

However, recent trends indicate a shift towards involving the military in these functions, a move that poses a potential threat to the democratic fabric of the nation.

Military officers in Ghana have been increasingly assigned roles that include serving as bodyguards for individuals and staffing civil institutions, roles that fall outside their traditional remit of safeguarding national security against external threats.

The military is designed to operate within a strict chain of command, and its culture is inherently different from that of civilian policing. The involvement of soldiers in internal security matters can lead to a more forceful approach to law enforcement, potentially escalating tensions rather than resolving conflicts peacefully.

The presence of military personnel in internal security roles might also undermine public trust in the police force. When citizens see soldiers on the streets performing duties that typically belong to the police, it may create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation rather than safety and security.

Furthermore, the mixing of military and police roles blurs the lines of accountability, making it more difficult to hold individuals accountable for misconduct.

Moreover, the deployment of military forces in internal matters often leads to the sidelining of civilian oversight, a cornerstone of democratic governance. This shift can set a dangerous precedent where the military, rather than elected officials and civil institutions, plays a dominant role in domestic affairs, undermining the democratic process.

The upcoming elections have raised concerns among citizens, given the country's past experiences with electoral violence and military involvement.

Two notable incidents come to mind. During the 2020 elections, eight (8) innocent citizens were killed, and despite a committee report, those responsible were not held accountable. Similarly, at the Ayawaso West wagon Constituency by-election, a sitting member of Parliament and others were brutally beaten and manhandled, yet the report's findings were not implemented.

These incidents have led many to question how the December 7th elections will be conducted. Will the military's involvement in internal security matters compromise the democratic process?

In addressing these concerns, it is vital for Ghana to reaffirm the primacy of civilian oversight in internal security. This involves empowering the police administration with the necessary resources, training, and personnel to effectively manage internal security threats while maintaining public trust.

Additionally, there's the need to establish a clear delineation between the roles of the military and the police, ensuring that each operates within its respective mandate.

Conclusion

Preserving Ghana's democracy requires a concerted effort to maintain a balance between security and freedom. It is imperative that Ghanaian leaders recognize the critical need to prevent the erosion of democratic institutions and practices through the unchecked militarization of internal security; only by reinforcing the civilian nature of internal security architecture can Ghana truly safeguard its democracy for future generations.