Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Omane Boamah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a transparent and merit-based recruitment process into the Ghana Armed Forces, warning that enlistment slots are “not for sale.”
In a Facebook post following a meeting with Parliament’s Committee on Defence and Interior, the minister made it clear that the era of backdoor military recruitment is over.
“Enlistment and recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces will be strictly merit-based and not for sale,” Dr. Boamah stated. “We are committed to transparency and fairness in our recruitment process.”
The Parliamentary Committee, led by Hon. James Agalga, paid a working visit to the Ministry of Defence at The Square in Accra. Discussions centred on national security, defence preparedness, and the logistical challenges facing the Ghana Armed Forces.
Dr. Boamah stressed the need for improved operational capacity for the military, calling for better platforms and equipment to respond to emerging threats, particularly in volatile areas along Ghana’s borders.
The Committee, in turn, expressed its full support for the Ministry’s mission and pledged parliamentary backing in the form of advocacy and resource allocation to help bolster national security.
“Our conversations were frank and forward-looking,” the minister noted. “Together, we can work towards a safer and more secure Ghana.”
The issue of fairness in military recruitment has been a longstanding concern in Ghana, with many young people voicing frustrations over allegations of nepotism and unofficial payments. The Minister’s public assurance is expected to restore some public trust ahead of upcoming recruitment drives.
