The African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, has called for a measured and cautious approach to military deployment during Ghana’s December 7 elections.

Speaking to Joy News, the seasoned diplomat and peacebuilding expert stressed the importance of striking a balance between ensuring security and avoiding intimidation of voters.

“It’s a fine balance that has to be maintained,” Chambas stated.

“The military has a role in developing national security on the whole, but election security organically falls within the mandate of the police and other law enforcement agencies.”

Dr. Chambas warned that the visible presence of heavily armed military personnel in electoral contexts could create unnecessary tension.

“We have a culture where military presence can intimidate and provoke unnecessary tension,” he explained, adding that such situations could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.

While acknowledging the military’s potential role in extreme situations, Chambas insisted their deployment should be limited and only activated upon request from the police.

“Obviously, they will deploy in the background because there are situations that may overwhelm police deployment. But if it gets to that point, they must come in a very measured way,” he noted.

Reflecting on Ghana’s electoral history, Chambas pointed out the tragic loss of lives in the 2020 elections as a stark reminder of the consequences of excessive force.

“Lives were lost in 2020. As Ghanaians, we all feel almost guilty that this happened, because the life of any Ghanaian matters,” he said.

Chambas expressed optimism in the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces, noting their assurances of non-intrusion into the electoral process.

“From statements issued by the Ghana Armed Forces, it’s clear they do not intend to play any role in the actual securitization of the electoral process,” he said.