The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has responded to comments made by Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey, Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), who suggested that there is a risk of a military coup in Ghana if the upcoming general election turns violent.

In a press release shared with GhanaWeb, the military dismissed the claim that its involvement in supporting the Ghana Police Service during potential election-related violence would constitute a coup.

GAF clarified that it would only assist the police if requested, and this action does not signify any intention to overthrow the government.

“Dr Akwetey is alleged to have said GAF has threatened to take over control of the country if elections in the country turn out violent beyond the control of the Ghana Police Service at press conferences held in 2016 and 2020. We wish to draw the attention of the public that GAF will only support the Ghana Police when the latter requests assistance and that does not constitute an overthrow of a government,” part of the release which was issued by Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, the Director General Public Relations of GFA on August 23, 2024, reads.

The GAF also refuted the assertion that it has ever publicly announced intentions to take control of the country in the event of election-related violence.