Mahama appoints new Acting Service Chiefs for Ghana Armed Forces

In a significant move to reinforce the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), President John Dramani Mahama has announced the appointment of new Acting Service Chiefs. This change in command is set to take effect on March 24, 2025, according to a statement released by the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Monday, March 17, 2025. The appointments come as part of ongoing restructuring within the military leadership, with the President noting that the final decisions will be subject to consultation with the Council of State.

New appointments in Ghana’s Military leadership

The newly appointed Acting Service Chiefs represent the four branches of the Ghana Armed Forces, along with a newly appointed Acting Chief of Staff. The key appointments are as follows:

Acting Chief of the Defence Staff: Brigadier General William Agyapong

Acting Chief of Army Staff: Brigadier General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu

Acting Chief of Naval Staff: Commodore Godwin Livinus Bessing

Acting Chief of Air Staff: Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong

Acting Chief of Staff: Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan

These appointments are expected to bring fresh perspectives to the leadership of the military, ensuring continued professionalism and preparedness in the face of evolving challenges.

A meeting with outgoing service chiefs

In a gesture of appreciation, President Mahama met with the outgoing Service Chiefs earlier in the day. The meeting, which took place at the Flagstaff House, was led by the outgoing Chief of the Defence Staff, General Thomas Oppong-Peprah. During the meeting, President Mahama expressed his gratitude for the dedicated service of the departing officers and acknowledged their invaluable contributions to national security and military operations.

The President highlighted his confidence in the experiences and expertise of the outgoing Service Chiefs, assuring them that their counsel and insights would be critical as he works to further strengthen the nation’s security apparatus.

Transition and future prospects

The transition to new leadership in the Ghana Armed Forces is expected to bring a renewed focus on operational excellence and national security. As the new acting officers assume their roles, the consultation with the Council of State will play a crucial part in determining the future direction of military leadership. The President’s call for a reset in Ghana’s security framework underscores his commitment to ensuring that the military remains a key pillar in the nation’s progress.

With the appointments set to take effect later this month, the nation’s security forces look ahead to a new era of leadership under these newly appointed acting officers. Their leadership will be crucial in navigating the complex security challenges facing Ghana, both regionally and internationally.