Kofi Amoabeng, the entrepreneur and founder of the now-defunct UT Bank, has weighed in on the recent spate of coup discussions in the sub-region. He asserted that Ghana’s 4th Republic has not witnessed any military takeovers due to the politicization of the Ghana Armed Forces.

Amoabeng explained that the trend of politicizing state institutions, a phenomenon observed across successive governments, including the current administration led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has led to this situation. He cautioned against this practice, emphasizing that it hinders progress.

“One of the most significant changes in our country is the tendency for political parties, especially the current government, to inject political interests into various state institutions. This is a perilous practice and a significant obstacle to our progress,” he commented.

Amoabeng elaborated that appointing individuals aligned with the ruling party to head these institutions often results in inefficiency and the suppression of their true capabilities. He emphasized the need for these appointees to follow the party’s directives rather than taking effective action.

The one positive outcome of this situation, he noted, is the absence of military coups, primarily because the armed forces have been influenced by political affiliations. This has led to political polarization within the army, which he described as unfortunate.

Amoabeng also highlighted a change from the past when army personnel were prohibited from engaging in political activities. Religion and politics were subjects that were off-limits for discussion during his time in the military, with the primary focus being service to the state.

Earlier, Albert Kan-Dapaah, the Minister of National Security, had expressed concern over false narratives regarding coup discussions and military rule in Ghana. He identified certain individuals in academia, civil society organizations (CSOs), and the media as disseminating misinformation through social media, potentially posing a threat to Ghana’s peace and stability.