Tuesday, 04 February

Prince Amoabeng rules out coup in Ghana, cites military’s exposure to wealth and politics

General News
Prince Amoabeng and KKD in CTV's studio

Retired military officer and businessman, Captain Prince Kofi Amoabeng, has dismissed the likelihood of a coup in Ghana, arguing that the conditions that once triggered military takeovers have drastically changed.

Speaking on CTV’s "MASTER of the GAME with King Kwasi Kyei Darkwah(KKD) on Monday, February 3, 2025, the former UT Bank CEO stated that Ghana’s military has been exposed to wealth and luxury, making a coup highly unlikely.

Captain Amoabeng explained that politicians have integrated soldiers into their circles, exposing them to affluence.

He believes this has influenced military officers to align with the interests of politicians rather than considering the idea of seizing power.

"The men in uniform today are deeply involved in purchasing properties across the country.

In the past, soldiers returning from peacekeeping missions would invest in basic businesses like grinding machines and taxis to supplement their salaries.

But now, some own properties in prime areas like East Legon," he remarked.

He lamented that the patriotism and professionalism that once defined Ghana’s military have eroded, giving way to political affiliations between the ruling NDC and NPP.

"In my time, we only discussed the military—our service, our discipline, and our duty.

But today, officers openly discuss politics, and promotions are sometimes based on political loyalty rather than merit," he noted.

According to the owner of the collapsed UT Bank,  any coup attempt in Ghana today would likely fail, as military officers are no longer motivated by national service but rather by personal financial interests.

"The soldiers know money and the luxury of life. The passion for serving under a patriotic and professional leader is no longer the same," he said.

Drawing from personal experience, he revealed that he left the military in 1981 after witnessing the breakdown of command, where junior officers disrespected and overpowered their seniors following the coup that brought Jerry John Rawlings to power.

He further noted that successful coups often lead to the deaths of good soldiers, while others are forced into exile, reinforcing his view that Ghana’s military would not risk such an outcome.

With these observations, Captain Amoabeng remains confident that Ghana will not experience a military coup, as the dynamics within the armed forces have shifted significantly from past decades

Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah