The Deputy Defence Minister nominee, Brogya Genfi, has stated that he will collaborate with his Minister, to minimise cases of military brutality against civilians.

Speaking before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Friday, February 28, 2025, Mr Genfi said there is a need to strengthen civil-military relations and prevent isolated incidents of excessive force by security personnel.

He was responding to a question posed by the Builsa North MP, James Agalga, regarding the 2023 Ashaiman military brutalities and what he would do by way of support to his Minister to promote positive civil-military relations.

• Read also: Military brutalise Ashaiman residents after soldier was killed

On Tuesday, March 7, 2023, a group of soldiers stormed Ashaiman and assaulted residents after their colleague, Sheriff Imoro, was allegedly stabbed to death by unknown assailants in the area.

The military later described their actions as an intelligence-led operation to apprehend suspects linked to the killing.

Some residents were reportedly forced to roll on the ground in muddy puddles created by early morning rains.

In response, Mr Genfi acknowledged that the Ghanaian public holds the Ghana Armed Forces in high regard and that a good relationship exists between the military and civilians.

However, he stressed the need to address isolated incidents of military brutality.

• Read also: Military brutalities in Ashaiman regrettable – Defence Minister

"The isolated unfortunate incidents are things that we must work at in order to reduce that to the barest minimum," he stated.

To tackle the issue, he proposed increased civil-military engagements, including collaboration with the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) to educate the public on the role of the Armed Forces and promote mutual respect between civilians and the military.

“I’m going to assist my Minister to encourage more civil-military engagement. The Ministry can engage with the NCCE to have education on the primary role and the respect that we must have for our security institutions,” he added.

Mr Genfi reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with his Minister to address concerns over military brutalities and foster a stronger, more cooperative relationship between security forces and the public.