The Minority in Parliament has described as unacceptable the stampede that claimed six lives during the recruitment exercise of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) at the El Wak Sports Stadium.
A statement issued by Leader of the Caucus Alexander Afenyo-Markin posited that never in our history have we witnessed such an incident.
He stated that what happened can best be described as a “catastrophic failure of crowd control and safety planning”.
The leader said there was the need for urgent answers, unflinching accountability and immediate systemic reforms.
He, on behalf of the Caucus, extended condolences to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones.
“Our deepest condolences go to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones in these heartbreaking circumstances. We also extend our solidarity and prayers to all those injured. The pursuit of national service must never be marred by preventable tragedy or compromised by inadequate safety measures.”
The minority has, among other demands, requested an independent probe into the incident.
The Caucus also wants the entire recruitment exercise to be halted.
“First, that this investigation be truly independent, thorough and time-bound, with its findings made public within fourteen days. The families of the deceased and the nation deserve transparency, not bureaucratic opacity.
Second, that immediate interim measures be implemented to halt all recruitment exercises until adequate crowd management protocols, emergency response systems and venue safety standards are verifiably in place.
Third, that those found responsible for this preventable loss of life – whether through negligence, poor planning or inadequate supervision – face appropriate administrative and, where warranted, legal consequences.
Fourth, that comprehensive reforms be instituted for all future recruitment exercises, including advance online registration systems, staggered scheduling, certified venue assessments, visible emergency medical presence, and proper coordination with civilian emergency services.”
According to the Leader, the Minority demands:
- A detailed public report on the investigation’s findings within two weeks.
- A clear timeline for implementing corrective measures
- Compensation and support for the families of the deceased and those injured
- A commitment from the Ghana Armed Forces and relevant government agencies that such a tragedy will never recur
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
