Former Deputy Minister of Education, John Ntim Fordjour, has raised serious concerns over President John Dramani Mahama’s recent reshuffle in the Ghana Armed Forces, calling it a politically motivated decision that threatens national security.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana, Fordjour described the changes as demoralizing to officers and a dangerous precedent for Ghana’s democracy.
“This kind of reset in the command of the Ghana Armed Forces is not only politically motivated but is also undermining the integrity of security sector governance,” he stated.
According to him, the decision weakens the morale of officers and introduces political influence into the military, which could have long-term consequences 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.
Fordjour emphasized that military leadership transitions should be handled prudently, ensuring professionalism and hierarchy are respected rather than prioritizing political loyalty.
“You don’t have to sacrifice meritocracy in the Ghana Armed Forces on the altar of political loyalty,” he said.
Citing past leadership transitions, he commended former President John Agyekum Kufuor for handling military appointments with caution, ensuring stability in the security sector.
“We all saw how responsible President Kufuor handled the transition. He didn’t just come and sack everybody to appoint new ones,” he remarked.
Fordjour also questioned the removal of all senior officers, arguing that it disregards their years of service and expertise.
“Are you saying that all these generals are NPP? Are you introducing political coloration into the army?” he asked.
He warned that such drastic shake-ups resemble military takeovers and could erode democratic principles.
“This is like a military takeover. It is so dangerous for our democracy,” he cautioned.
In response to the situation, Fordjour revealed that the parliamentary committee on defense and interior had summoned the Minister for Defense to clarify the government’s approach to managing the transition and restoring stability in the armed forces.
Despite his concerns, he expressed gratitude to the dismissed officers for their dedicated service while assuring support for the newly appointed security chiefs.
“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.