CDS Directs Unit Commanders To Be Neutral In Election Related Matters

The Chief of the Defence Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, Air Marshal Michael Samson-Oje, has enjoined Commanders at all levels to remain focused, steadfast and impartial in their election related duties.

He said the Ghana Armed Forces is expected to provide effective security to prevent disturbances during this election period. 

Air Marshal Oje was addressing the closing ceremony of the Ghana Armed Forces, Inter-Service Shooting Competition dubbed Exercise Fireblast 2016 at the shooting range in Sunyani in the Bono-Ahafo Region. 

Sergeant Emmanuel Appiah Koli was adjudged the overall best in the competition and was promoted to Staff Sergeant by the Chief of the Defence Staff. 

In attendance at the closing ceremony of the Ghana Armed Forces, Inter-Service Shooting Competition was the Chief of Defense Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces and the Guest of honor, Air Marshal Michael Samson-Oje.  

Also present were the Chief of the Staffs from the Army, Navy and Air Force, Officers from the Prisons Service, the Ghana Police Service, Chiefs as well as members of the Public. 

In his address, Air Marshal Samson-Oje said, the Ghana Armed Forces will continue to intensify its drive at improving its human resource both qualitatively and quantitatively.  

He added that  Higher Command of the Armed Forces is implementing pragmatic and human-centred policies to address the welfare needs of service personnel and their families.  

He pointed to increased operational leave opportunities, improved uniform and ration supply and allowances in recent times as evidence of this. 

He continued that efforts will be made to ensure improved logistics to enhance their operational output and further improve morale. 

Turning to the December 7 General Elections,Air Marshal Oje said though Ghana has been described as the oasis of peace and stability in the West African sub-region, the lingering Northern conflict, organised crime, galamsey, electoral security and other related issues continue to pose security challenges to the Country. 

He said this year marks another period for Presidential and Parliamentary election and the Armed Forces will be expected to provide effective security to prevent disturbances before, during and after the December 7 elections. 

Air Marshal Oje urged all to continue to pledge to do their very best towards the maintenance of peace and security in the country in the face of challenges and also resist every temptation to dabble in activities for which the military is not constitutionally mandated. 

The Exercise Fireblast Shooting competition saw the Army emerging as the overall winners with 2342 points.  

The Air Force took the runner up position with 2162 points. 

Awards and certificates were given to officers who did well in the M16 Rifle, falling plates and other categories of the shooting competition.


GBC