Speaker Bagbin calls for reforms in Ghana Armed Forces’ recruitment process

Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has instructed the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Interior to designate a substantive Minister for Defence as soon as possible and called for reforms in Armed Forces recruitment process.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, after remarks regarding the fatal stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium, the Speaker stated that although Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the present Acting Minister, has demonstrated ability, he is overburdened with other duties.

“It’s not because the current acting minister is not capable,” he said. “But we know the pressures on him, and we need someone who can provide full reports and address some of the issues you’ve raised.”

Mr. Bagbin also called for reforms in the Ghana Armed Forces’ recruitment process, suggesting a continuous enlistment system to prevent overcrowding and tragic outcomes.

“What prevents this country from having a continuous recruitment process?” he asked. “We don’t have to wait and do it once every year or two, creating backlogs that lead to rushed processes and unfortunate incidents.”

The Speaker assigned the Defense and Interior Committee to consult with the ministry and then report back to Parliament on suggestions to enhance the recruitment procedures.

Six persons died during the El-Wak recruitment exercise, according to the Ghana Armed Forces, which also advised the public to ignore unconfirmed reports of the tragedy.

Source: Ghanatodayonline.com