NPP calls for probe into GAF recruitment tragedy
The National Youth Wing of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for an immediate investigation into the stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra, which claimed the lives of six people during a military recruitment exercise.
In a statement signed by the National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha, the group expressed grief over the tragedy and urged the caretaker Minister of Defence, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to launch a thorough inquiry to determine the cause of the incident.
“This is very unfortunate and should not be happening in this present era of advanced technology,” the statement said. “We are disturbed by videos trending on social media showing thousands of young Ghanaians struggling to go through and stand at advantageous positions.”
The NPP Youth Wing questioned the level of preparation and crowd control measures put in place during the recruitment process. It also raised concerns about the lack of batching for applicants, given the large turnout, and whether officers on duty handled the situation appropriately.
“There are too many questions begging for answers,” the statement added, calling for urgent measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The group noted that the youth involved were only seeking opportunities to serve their country and improve their lives, stressing that such aspirations should not end in tragedy.
The statement also conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“We send our sincere condolences to the bereaved families and well wishes to the injured,” it said. “The pursuit of dreams and opportunities should not be perilous.”
