Parliament has taken swift action in response to the disturbing reports of military brutalities inflicted upon residents of Garu and Tempane on October 29, 2023. The Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah Amoako, has extended an invitation to National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah to provide insights into the regrettable incident during a parliamentary session scheduled for November 9, 2023.
The decision to summon the minister comes after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for Garu, Albert Alalzuuga Akuka, delivered an urgent statement on the floor concerning the distressing military actions against innocent residents. These actions have provoked widespread condemnation from members of both sides of the House, who collectively called for Minister Kan-Dapaah’s appearance before Parliament to address the matter.
In his statement, Mr. Akuka expressed deep concern over the brutalization and injury inflicted upon the residents by military personnel. He emphasized that such actions by uniformed officers, who are responsible for protecting civilians, are inexcusable and add to a troubling pattern of misconduct.
Reports from residents indicated that the military operation resulted in the confiscation of money and valuable items from the affected individuals. MP Akuka, however, expressed frustration over the lack of information regarding the number of residents detained, their current whereabouts, and the reasons behind their apprehension. He deemed this situation an unacceptable violation of citizens’ rights and called for immediate government intervention and a parliamentary inquiry to reach a comprehensive resolution.
Contributing to the discussion, Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin asserted that Parliament should not condone military excesses against innocent civilians, regardless of the circumstances. He emphasized that no provocation justifies brutality, and while the military may have its perspective on events, it should never lead to harm to national security operatives.
James Agalga, the Ranking Member on the Defence Committee, appealed to the Speaker to facilitate the immediate release and transfer of the victims from Garu to Accra.
This incident has raised concerns about the use of military force against civilians and underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in such cases. The parliamentary inquiry aims to shed light on the events of that fateful day and ensure that justice is served.
Source: [Graphic Online]
