Ghanaian politician and former Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong, has made serious allegations against the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) regarding the ongoing 2025/2026 military recruitment. According to him, the official recruitment process advertised to the public is not genuine, but rather a “facade” meant to deceive young applicants.
Speaking on the matter, Agyapong claimed that the GAF had already pre-selected candidates through what he described as “backdoor” arrangements. He said the real slots were already given out to individuals with political connections and other forms of favoritism long before the public recruitment opened.
“Those Who Died, Died for Nothing” — Agyapong Speaks on EL Wak Tragedy
The outspoken politician expressed deep concern over the tragic stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium, where six young applicants lost their lives during the recruitment process. He said these young people “died for nothing” because the recruitment was already decided.
Agyapong, who once served as chairman of Parliament’s Defense Committee, said he knows how the system works and vowed to end such practices if he becomes president.
Accusations of Systemic Corruption
According to him, corruption has become deeply rooted in some parts of the recruitment system, allowing people with influence to secure military slots for their preferred candidates while hardworking and qualified young Ghanaians are pushed aside.
His comments have sparked anger and concern among the public, especially at a time when the nation is mourning the deaths of the young applicants.
Calls for Transparency and Fairness
Following Agyapong’s claims, many Ghanaians are demanding greater transparency in the military recruitment process. Civil society groups, concerned citizens, and families of applicants are calling for reforms to protect the integrity of the armed forces and ensure that recruitment is strictly based on merit.
GAF Response and Ongoing Investigations
The Ghana Armed Forces have previously warned the public against recruitment scams and repeatedly stated that their selection process is free, fair, and based on merit. They have not yet responded directly to Agyapong’s new allegations, but the claims have intensified public debate.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence has launched an investigation into the EL Wak stampede that led to the death of six applicants and left several others injured. As part of the response, the Greater Accra recruitment exercise has been suspended until further notice.
Public Demands Accountability
Many Ghanaians are now calling for a thorough, independent investigation into both the stampede and the alleged backdoor recruitment system. They believe the armed forces must maintain integrity and fairness, especially during sensitive national exercises.
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