John Ntim Fordjour has expressed deep concerns over President John Dramani’s recent changes in the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces, describing them as politically motivated and detrimental to national security.
“This kind of reset in the command of the Ghana Armed Forces is not only politically motivated but it is demoralizing. It is undermining the integrity of security sector governance,” he stated.
According to him, such actions weaken the morale of officers and introduce political interference into the military structure, which could have dangerous implications for the country’s stability.
“It has taken a lot of their morale away. It has introduced political callous into the Ghana Armed Forces, and it is dangerous for our security,” he warned.
He argued that military transitions should be handled prudently, respecting hierarchy and professionalism rather than sacrificing meritocracy for political loyalty. “You don’t have to sacrifice meritocracy in the Ghana Armed Forces on the altar of political loyalty,” he said.
Recalling past instances where leadership transitions were managed responsibly, he pointed to former presidents who ensured stability in the security sector by making changes only when necessary.
“We all saw how responsible President Kufuor handled the transition. He didn’t just come and sack everybody to appoint new ones,” he remarked.
He questioned the decision to remove all senior officers, asserting that it disregards their years of service, expertise, and the substantial investment made in their training.
“Are you saying that all these generals are NPP? Are you introducing political coloration into the army?” he asked on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana.
Fordjour further stressed that such a drastic shake-up is reminiscent of military takeovers and could set a bad precedent for Ghana’s democracy. “This is like a military takeover. It is so dangerous for our democracy,” he cautioned.
The lawmaker also revealed that the parliamentary committee on defense and interior had summoned the defense minister to explain and explain how the transition would be managed to restore morale and stability in the armed forces. “We have invited the Minister for Defense before the committee to appear as soon as possible to offer assurances,” he stated.
Despite his criticisms, he extended gratitude to the dismissed officers for their dedicated service.
He congratulated the newly appointed security chiefs, assuring them of support in their new roles for the greater good of Ghana. “To all the generals who have sacrificed for this nation and served conscientiously, I say Ayekoo! And to the newly appointed officers, we assure you of our support so that you will excel for the security of our country,” he concluded.
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