The secret Behind Changes in Military

The much anticipated changes in the command structure of the Ghana Armed Forces has finally taken place, according to the Free Press.

In a dramatic sweep, President J.A. Kufuor, in his capacity as the Commander-in-chief of the Ghana Armed Forces last Friday announced the immediate removal of all the top brass of the Ghana Armed Forces.

Those affected included the Chief of Defence Staff, Lt General Ben Akafia, the Army Commander, Lt. General C.A. Okae, Chief of Staff of the Ghana Army.

Others include Vice Admiral F.O. Owusu Ansah, Navy Commander, Air Marshal J. A. Bruce, Air Force Commander, Major General H.K. Anyidoho, Commander of Northern Command of the Army and Major General F.Y. Mahama, Commander of the Southern Command.

In their places, the following Officers were appointed in acting capacities; Major-General Seth Obeng, Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier C.B. Yaache, Chief of Army Staff, Air Commodore E.A. Mantey Chief of Air Staff and Rear Admiral John Gbena, Chief of Navy Staff.

Brigadier F.K.Y. Mensah takes over as Chief of Staff at the Ministry of Defence whilst Brigadier J.B. Danquah and Brigadier G. Ayiku take over as Commanders of the Southern and Northern Commands of the Army respectively.

As a sweetner, the President announced the appointment of General Ben Akafia as an Ambasador-designate whilst the other officers were promised other appointments.

Military analysts and social commentators see this move as an attempt by President Kufuor to consolidate his hold on the Ghana Armed forces, which has gained a marked notoriety for removing constitutional governments.