PSGH Demands Justice After Soldier’s Alleged Attack on Civilians at Burma Camp — Why Accountability Matters

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has called for swift justice and accountability following an alleged incident in which a soldier assaulted civilians at Burma Camp, Accra. The professional body says such actions undermine public trust in the country’s security forces and weaken Ghana’s commitment to the rule of law.

The reported attack occurred within the premises of *Burma Camp, the headquarters of the *Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). According to eyewitness accounts, civilians were allegedly assaulted by military personnel during a security operation.

Although the full details remain unclear, the incident follows similar past episodes in which soldiers have been accused of using excessive force against civilians, prompting renewed concerns about military accountability.

The PSGH’s statement emphasizes that every Ghanaian, regardless of their background, deserves protection under the law — even within military zones.

The Society’s intervention goes beyond a single case; it raises broader questions about civil–military relations and the protection of human rights in Ghana. Over the years, sporadic reports of military brutality have surfaced, often after confrontations between civilians and soldiers.

Such incidents challenge Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy that respects due process and the rule of law — a reputation that distinguishes it from some of its West African neighbours facing military unrest or coups.

For Africa more broadly, ensuring military accountability is key to preserving democratic governance and public confidence in state institutions.

This is not the first time the military has come under scrutiny for its handling of civilians. In *March 2023, a large-scale operation in *Ashaiman followed the killing of a soldier in the area. More than 70 residents were arrested, and several alleged they were subjected to physical abuse at Burma Camp before being released.

The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) later criticized that operation as excessive and not compliant with intelligence-led policing standards.

Human-rights observers have repeatedly warned that unchecked military force in civilian communities could erode public cooperation with security agencies and escalate social tensions.

PSGH’s Position and Demands

In its official statement, the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana condemned the assault and urged authorities to act decisively. The group called for:

• A thorough, independent investigation into the Burma Camp incident.
• Sanctions against any military personnel found culpable.
• Protection and compensation for the affected civilians.
• Clear protocols to guide future military-civilian engagements.

The PSGH said it is speaking out not only as a professional body but also as part of civil society committed to justice and respect for human rights.

“No Ghanaian should suffer violence from those sworn to protect them,” a PSGH spokesperson noted, stressing that respect for due process is fundamental to national peace and cohesion.

The 2023 Ashaiman incident remains one of the most widely discussed cases of alleged military excess in recent years. Residents recounted how they were detained without warrants, and some were beaten after being transferred to Burma Camp.

Public outcry from lawmakers, civil-society groups, and religious leaders eventually led to government assurances of reform. However, rights advocates argue that more needs to be done to institutionalize accountability and prevent recurrence.

For the Ghana Armed Forces, the latest episode presents an opportunity to reinforce discipline and rebuild public trust. Transparent handling of the case could demonstrate the institution’s commitment to professionalism and respect for civilian authority.

For the government, it is a test of how effectively democratic systems can check abuses within security agencies. Ensuring that investigations are fair and outcomes are public would strengthen Ghana’s image as a country governed by the rule of law.

Civil-society organizations, including the PSGH, have pledged to monitor the case closely and to support victims seeking redress. Analysts note that if this case leads to meaningful reform, it could set a precedent for how Ghana addresses future incidents involving security forces.

The PSGH’s call for justice following the alleged attack at Burma Camp is not just a reaction to one event. It is a reflection of Ghana’s ongoing struggle to balance national security with individual rights — a reminder that even in times of tension, the rule of law must remain the nation’s strongest defense.

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