text: The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has responded to media reports claiming that military personnel were deployed to the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) to disrupt parliamentary activities. In a press release dated October 22, 2024, GAF denied these claims, explaining that the deployment was requested by Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, for standard security checks.
  The clarification follows concerns that the military’s presence was intended to influence parliamentary matters. GAF strongly dismissed these reports, labeling them as “misinformation” that damages the military’s reputation.
  According to the military, the request was made on October 21, 2024, through the Clerk of Parliament, for routine canine and bomb sweeps—a procedure typically carried out when Parliament holds sessions outside the traditional Parliament House, such as during the Fifth Meeting of the Fourth Session.
  “It is essential to clarify that GAF personnel were not present at the Grand Arena to interfere with Parliamentary proceedings,” the statement noted. GAF’s role was solely to ensure the safety of the venue by checking for explosives or harmful substances.
  Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, Director of General Public Relations, reassured the public of GAF’s dedication to citizens’ welfare and urged the media to avoid spreading false reports. “We always undertake such missions with the aim of ensuring the security and safety of all,” he emphasized.
  Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Mary Asantewaa Buabeng