President Mahama cautions against unconstitutional changes in sub-region
President John Dramani Mahama has cautioned against the growing trend of unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa, warning that such developments pose a serious threat to regional peace, stability and democratic governance.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Ghana Military Academy (GMA) at Teshie on Friday, President Mahama said Ghana’s Armed Forces remain firmly committed to constitutional rule and civilian authority despite growing instability in the sub-region.
“In a sub-region challenged by unconstitutional changes of government, our Armed Forces remain firm defenders of democracy, civilian authority and the rule of law,” the President stated.
A total of 263 officer cadets were commissioned into the Ghana Armed Forces during the ceremony.
Commitment to Democracy
President Mahama said Ghana’s experience in international peace support operations has reinforced the Armed Forces’ respect for democratic governance and constitutional order.
“Exposure to conflict environments has reinforced the Ghana Armed Forces’ deep respect for constitutional rule and democratic governance,” he noted.
He stressed that the military’s loyalty to democratic principles remains non-negotiable and must be upheld by the newly commissioned officers.
Charge to New Officers
Addressing the graduating cadets, President Mahama reminded them that their role as officers goes beyond battlefield readiness to the preservation of national unity and democratic values.
“You are guardians of peace, justice and national unity. Uphold these values with honour, courage and integrity,” he charged.
He added that leadership in the Armed Forces demands humility, discipline and respect for the Constitution.
“Leadership is not about rank or privilege. It is about responsibility, service and sacrifice,” the President said.
Regional and Security Context
President Mahama observed that the security environment in West Africa remains complex and volatile, with terrorism, violent extremism and political instability presenting interconnected challenges.
“The rise of non-state actors and asymmetric warfare has reshaped the nature of security challenges in our region,” he stated.
He underscored the need for coordinated national and regional responses to prevent instability and safeguard democratic institutions.
Ghana’s Peacekeeping Role
The President reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to international peace support operations, noting that Ghana remains among the leading troop-contributing countries to United Nations missions.
“Our men and women serve with distinction in fifteen missions worldwide under the United Nations, the African Union and ECOWAS,” he said.
