The head of corporate communications at Ghana National Gas Company, Honorable Richard Kirk Mensah, has publicly expressed his disappointment regarding the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) in light of the tragic stampede that took place during their recruitment exercise earlier today.
This unfortunate event occurred in Accra on Wednesday morning, November 12, 2025, during a national military recruitment exercise at the El Wak Sports Stadium. The incident resulted in six fatalities and numerous injuries.
In response to the situation, Honorable Richard Kirk Mensah, who also serves as the Western Regional Communications Director of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), utilized social media to share his thoughts, stating,
“The Ghana Armed Forces messed up. What were they thinking?” He further extended his condolences to the victims, saying, “May their souls rest in peace,” and added, “GAF should have known better.”
According to statements from the Ghana Armed Forces, the stampede ensued when a large number of young Ghanaians flooded the stadium in a desperate attempt to secure enlistment.
The excessive crowding at the entry points led to significant pushing and jostling, resulting in chaos, injuries, and fatalities.
In response to the incident, security personnel have cordoned off the area, while military officers are actively managing major roadblocks leading to the stadium to maintain order and facilitate rescue operations.
The deceased individuals have been transported to the morgue at the 37 Military Hospital.
President John Dramani Mahama has visited the 37 Military Hospital in Accra to check on the victims who are receiving medical treatment subsequent to the tragic events.
Furthermore, during a briefing in Parliament, the Acting Minister for Defence, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, informed members that the recruitment process, which had been decentralized to mitigate congestion and promote transparency, has been suspended in Accra following this tragic incident.
He confirmed that the recruitment initiatives in Accra are halted until further notice, and an internal board of inquiry has been established to investigate the matter.
According to Dr. Forson, five individuals are currently in critical condition and undergoing intensive care, twelve others are considered to be in fairly critical condition, and twenty-eight additional individuals have been transported to the 37 Military Hospital for further treatment.
The Ministry of Defence has extended its condolences to the families affected by this tragedy and has assured the public of a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
Dr. Forson emphasized the Ministry's commitment to prioritizing the safety and dignity of all applicants, asserting that measures will be taken to prevent a similar occurrence in the future.
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