By Sharryl Annor

Over 2000 frustrated applicants of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment exercise are calling on President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry of Defence to urgently intervene after the sudden termination of their enlistment process.

The affected applicants, who began the recruitment journey in 2021, say they have endured four years of rigorous screening, only to be informed that their batch has been cancelled.

According to them, this decision has left many jobless, financially drained, and uncertain about their future.

Recruitment Interrupted by 2024 Elections

Convener of the group, Kumatey Joshua Adams, told GhanaNewsMedia that the recruitment process was initially divided into three batches due to the large number of applicants. While the first two batches successfully completed training and were enlisted, the third batch faced delays as the 2024 general elections interrupted their process.

“When we started the recruitment exercise in 2021, we had to be divided into three batches because there were so many of us, hoping it would soon be our turn. But when it finally got to us, the elections disrupted the process. We were assured of enlistment afterwards, only to be told now that the process has been cancelled,” Kumatey explained.

He revealed that applicants have now been asked to reapply under new age restrictions and medical requirements, a directive he described as unfair to those who have already invested four years in the process.

Sacrifices and Struggles of Applicants

Many of the applicants say they sacrificed jobs, education, and financial stability in anticipation of joining the army. Kumatey lamented that some even slept on the streets of Accra while waiting for updates.

“Some of us quit our jobs because we believed this dream was within reach. Now, after four years, we are being told to start afresh. It’s heartbreaking,” he said.

Another applicant narrated:

“I abandoned nursing school forms just to pursue my passion for the military. I’ve become a burden to my family after losing my job during the process. This cancellation has shattered my dreams. I beg the government to reconsider.”

Petition to Authorities

The group, made up of representatives from all 16 regions, has petitioned the Acting Minister for Defence, Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, and the CEO of the Youth Employment Agency for intervention. They also staged a gathering at Independence Square, intending to march to Jubilee House to demand answers.

Despite their appeals, they say they have yet to receive an official response.

The applicants are therefore urging the President, the Ministry of Defence, and the Ghana Armed Forces to review the decision and allow their enlistment to proceed, stressing that they remain fit and committed to serve Ghana.