Media professionals have been warned not to act as channels for revealing Ghana’s security strategies, especially through the dissemination of leaked sensitive documents.
Brigadier General Eric Aggrey-Quarshie (Rtd), the former Director General of the Defence Public Relations Department, issued this warning during a one-day capacity-building workshop for members of the Defence Press Corps at Burma Camp on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
The purpose of the workshop was to enhance understanding and foster collaboration between the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the media.
“The media should not serve as free conduits for our adversaries,” Brig. Gen. Aggrey-Quarshie stated. “Do not allow yourselves to be used to harm Ghana in order to fulfill someone else’s agenda.”
He emphasized that the publication of classified or leaked security information could jeopardize national security and cautioned journalists against exerting pressure on security agencies to reveal sensitive information. He also encouraged practitioners to meticulously verify information prior to publication.
The retired military officer further advised journalists to avoid profiling individuals, particularly public officials, by disclosing sensitive personal information that could be misused in the future.
He urged the media to contribute to national security initiatives by remaining alert and actively engaging in the “See Something, Say Something” campaign.
To assist in promoting responsible security reporting, Brig. Gen. Aggrey-Quarshie introduced the acronym SALUTE — Size of the subject, Activity of the person, Location of the incident, Uniform, Time, and Equipment used. He asserted that concentrating on these components will enable journalists to relay accurate information to the relevant authorities while effectively informing the public.
In addition to conventional security issues, he urged the media to focus on topics such as food waste, environmental risks, public accountability, street begging, and the fostering of peaceful coexistence, along with robust bilateral relations with Ghana’s neighboring countries.
Naval Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, the Acting Director General of the Defence Public Relations Department, emphasized the significant impact of the media in influencing public views regarding the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
She remarked that the workshop provided a platform for open discussions, sharing of experiences, and a renewed dedication to transparency, professionalism, and national unity.
Capt. Arhin clarified that the capacity-building program aimed to improve reporting by encouraging accuracy, thus bolstering public confidence in the Ghana Armed Forces.
In response to concerns voiced by attendees, she reassured journalists of the military’s commitment to ensuring their safety while covering operations, while also advising them to be cautious to prevent unnecessary confrontations.
Several participants voiced their discontent regarding alleged harassment by military personnel during the execution of their duties.
