The Minority in Parliament has called for an immediate nationwide suspension of the ongoing military recruitment exercise to allow for comprehensive reforms aimed at ensuring public safety and transparency.
The appeal follows a tragic stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium on Wednesday, November 12, where six people lost their lives and several others sustained injuries as Thousands of applicants converged for the exercise.
Members of Parliament on the Defence and Interior Committee visited victims receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital.
During the visit, the Ranking Member, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, emphasised the need for the government to provide adequate compensation to the victims and their families.
“We are appealing that, in the best interest of safeguarding the lives of potential recruits, all nationwide recruitment exercises should be put to a halt, not just in Accra. It must be halted so that a good job can be done in probing, reviewing, and reforming, and then, when we put in optimal measures, we can recommence the process,” Reverend Fordjour stated.
He further urged that the government consider measures to support affected families and potential recruits.
“Another appeal we want to make to the government is to look at how adequate compensation will be provided for our brave potential soldiers who have lost their lives and for their families.
“For those who are wounded, we hope that when they recover and if they meet the GAF medical requirements, they are prioritised. Consideration should also be given to their relatives to replace them where necessary,” he added.
