The recent victory of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama in the presidential elections is not just a testament to the trust the people of Ghana have in him but also a clear endorsement of his vision for resetting the nation. Among the many sectors that need immediate attention, the Ghana Armed Forces stand out as a critical institution that requires thorough reform to regain its lost prestige and honor.
Over the past eight years, the military has faced numerous challenges, including issues of favoritism, compromised recruitment processes, and loss of professionalism. These issues have tarnished its once-pristine image. President Mahama, as the Commander-in-Chief, now has the opportunity to restore the dignity of the Armed Forces and bring about the change the troops are yearning for.
Why the Military Needs Resetting
The Ghana Armed Forces play a crucial role in national security, but under the previous administration, its structure and operations were severely undermined. Recruitment processes became skewed to favor individuals aligned with the ruling party at the time, ignoring merit and standards. This led to a decline in professionalism and morale among personnel. The once highly regarded institution started to lose its shine, becoming a political tool instead of a disciplined force.
Beyond recruitment, the leadership of the military also suffered. Senior officers were sidelined or forced into premature retirement to make way for politically connected individuals. This not only disrupted the hierarchy but also created a culture of fear and uncertainty within the ranks. For instance, the rise of Brigadier General Thomas Oppong-Preprah to the highest ranks was marked by the controversial demotion and retirement of his senior officers. Such actions demoralized the institution and left a scar on its traditions.
Breach of Military Traditions
The military operates on a strict set of traditions and values that ensure discipline, order, and respect within its ranks. However, these traditions were largely ignored in recent years. For example, positions traditionally reserved for officers with specific expertise were given to individuals without the requisite qualifications. A logistics officer being promoted to Chief of Staff, an appointment typically reserved for other specialized roles, is one such example.
Even more concerning was the decision to appoint a Brigadier General as the President’s Aide-de-Camp (ADC), a position traditionally held by a Colonel. This move not only disregarded military conventions but also placed a senior officer in a role far below his rank and responsibility, reducing the significance of the rank itself. Such decisions created widespread dissatisfaction among the troops, with many feeling that their institution was being manipulated for political purposes.
The Impact on Troops
The morale of the troops has been significantly affected over the years. Soldiers were deployed to serve as drivers for civilians, guard the homes of politically exposed individuals, and perform other duties that undermined their primary role. These actions made the military appear subservient and eroded the respect it once commanded.
Furthermore, the lack of engagement between the Commander-in-Chief and the military personnel deepened this discontent. Unlike his predecessors, President Akufo-Addo never held durbars with the troops to address their concerns or boost their morale. This absence of interaction made many feel neglected and undervalued.
Expectations from President Mahama
The Ghana Armed Forces have high hopes for President Mahama. They see his leadership as an opportunity to correct the wrongs of the past and restore the military’s reputation. The personnel expect a massive shakeup that will bring about real change. This includes reviewing recent appointments and promotions, many of which are seen as politically motivated, and ensuring that leadership roles are based on merit and experience.
To reset the Armed Forces, President Mahama must prioritize the following:
Reforming Recruitment Processes: Recruitment should be based on merit, with strict adherence to standards and procedures to ensure that only qualified individuals join the military.
Restoring Traditions: The military’s traditions and values must be upheld to maintain discipline and order within the ranks. Appointments and promotions should follow established protocols.
Boosting Troop Morale: Regular engagement with military personnel through durbars and other platforms will help rebuild trust and morale. The troops need to feel valued and respected.
Addressing Leadership Issues: Leadership roles must be filled by individuals with the right qualifications and experience. Any signs of favoritism or political interference should be eliminated.
Upholding Professionalism: The military should focus on its core duties and avoid being drawn into political activities or tasks that undermine its role as a disciplined force.
A New Beginning
The Ghana Armed Forces are at a crossroads. The decisions made in the coming months will determine whether the military can regain its former glory or continue down a path of decline. President Mahama’s resetting agenda offers hope for a new beginning. By taking bold and decisive actions, he can restore the dignity and professionalism of the Armed Forces, ensuring that they once again become a source of pride for the nation.
As Ghana enters this new chapter, the troops are watching closely. They are counting on President Mahama to deliver on his promises and lead the military into a brighter future. It is now up to him to seize this opportunity and make history.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0