Defence Corruption Is Dangerous, Divisive and Wasteful – Dr. Ofori Mensah Tells Kumasi Journalists
Defence expert urges journalists to expose corruption in the security sector while protecting national interests.
- Defence corruption threatens national security and stability
- Media urged to promote accountability in security institutions
- Corruption drains resources meant for national development
A defence and security expert has warned that corruption in Ghana’s defence sector poses a direct threat to national security, democracy and public resources.
Speaking at a media training on defence integrity in Kumasi, Dr. Michael Ofori Mensah said journalists have a critical role to play in exposing and preventing corruption within the security sector.
Using the framework “Dangerous, Divisive and Wasteful,” Dr. Ofori Mensah explained why defence corruption must be treated as a national security concern and not merely a financial issue.
1. DANGEROUS: It threatens security and stability
Dr. Ofori Mensah said corrupt practices weaken security institutions and reduce their ability to respond effectively to threats.
“It enables human rights abuses and predatory behaviour against civilians,” he noted.
He added that when state institutions are compromised, it creates gaps that can empower organised crime networks and non-state actors.
2. DIVISIVE: It undermines the social contract and democratic oversight
According to Dr. Ofori Mensah, corruption erodes public trust in state institutions.
“When people lose faith in the military and police, it fuels grievances and deepens social divisions. This can lead to conflict, coups and extremism,” he said.
He further warned that corruption weakens civilian and parliamentary oversight of the military, resulting in what he described as “elite capture.”
3. WASTEFUL: It drains public resources
Dr. Ofori Mensah told journalists that corruption in the defence sector has a direct impact on national development.
“It diverts defence budgets through procurement fraud, ghost soldiers and embezzlement. It also reduces resources available for public services and social welfare,” he stated.
He said the opportunity cost is significant because every cedi lost through defence corruption is a cedi that could have been invested in healthcare, education or infrastructure.
The role of the media
Dr. Ofori Mensah urged journalists to remain vigilant and responsible in their reporting on defence and security matters.
“Your job is to hold institutions accountable without compromising operations. Expose the problem, not the plan,” he advised participants at the Kumasi training.
The media training on defence integrity was organised to equip journalists in the Ashanti Region with the knowledge and skills needed to report accurately and safely on defence and security issues.
