Defence Minister nominee advises against unqualified military enlistment and commits to regional balance
The Defence Minister nominee, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has cautioned Ghanaians against seeking enlistment into the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) without meeting the requisite qualifications.
Speaking before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, Dr Omane Boamah drew on his experience as a medical professional and his understanding of GAF operations to stress the importance of adhering to proper recruitment procedures.
“Knowing the Ghana Armed Forces that I know and from where I sat about 17 years ago, if you succumb to the procedures and rules of engagement and get enlisted, you are likely to suffer. Some recruits even die at training,” he remarked.
He emphasised the rigorous nature of military training, which is designed for individuals who meet the established physical, mental, and emotional qualifications. These standards, he explained, ensure the well-being of recruits and maintain the Armed Forces' high operational standards.
As a medical advisor, Dr Omane Boamah reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that only qualified individuals join the GAF. “I will be the first to advise such a person not to do so,” he stated, underscoring the potential dangers of bypassing recruitment protocols.
Commitment to regional balance in recruitment
Dr Omane Boamah also pledged to ensure fairness and inclusivity in military recruitment by promoting regional balance within the GAF.
During his vetting, he expressed his belief in equity, stating, “I am a student of equity, and I believe that the military must reflect the diversity of our nation.”
He highlighted the importance of an inclusive recruitment process that represents all regions of Ghana, fostering national unity and cohesion. “We must ensure that every region is given equal opportunity to serve in the military, thus fostering unity and cohesion across the country,” he noted.
Dr Omane Boamah further stressed that a balanced recruitment approach would strengthen national integration. “When we ensure that recruitment is balanced across the regions, we are not just creating an army; we are reinforcing national integration and ensuring that every part of the country feels part of the larger goal of national security,” he added.
Should he be confirmed, Dr Omane Boamah assured the committee that addressing regional disparities in military recruitment would be a top priority. “I will do everything in my power to ensure that no region is left behind in the recruitment process. The military should be a true reflection of Ghana’s rich diversity,” he concluded.