-BY Issah Olegor
In a rare and ceremonious gathering at Burma Camp, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Major General William Agyapong, hosted a valedictory meeting for all Two-Star Generals of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) on Monday, April 28, 2025.
The event marked a significant moment in the ongoing restructuring of the military’s high command, underscoring continuity and tradition within the ranks of the Armed Forces.
The meeting, held at the CDS’s office, served both as a formal farewell and a gesture of appreciation to the retiring Generals for their unwavering commitment, professionalism, and service to the nation.
Major General Agyapong, who recently assumed the role of CDS following a reshuffle, conveyed the gratitude of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces to the dispatching officers.
He described the outgoing Generals as pillars of strength and discipline whose contributions had fortified the institutional fabric of the military.
“As part of efforts to enhance command and control within the Armed Forces, many of you will be honourably released from service in accordance with Ghana Armed Forces regulations,” the CDS informed the gathering.
He emphasized that the transition was necessary to accommodate a new crop of leadership while preserving military cohesion and efficiency.
Major General Irvine Aryeetey, Commandant of the National College of Defence Studies, delivered a statement on behalf of his colleagues.
He explained that the changes within the military command structure were not unprecedented but deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the GAF.
Citing specific precedents, he noted that the shift from then CDS Lt. Gen. OB Akwa (Intake 18) to Vice Admiral Seth Amoama (Intake 23) involved a five-intake gap.
Similarly, the change from Vice Admiral Amoama to General Thomas Oppong-Peprah (Intakes 23 to 26) reflected a three-intake interval.
“The current transition from General Oppong-Peprah to Major General Agyapong represents a four-intake difference—this, too, is within the bounds of long-established military practice,” he stated.
Major General Aryeetey also commended the CDS for introducing a new tradition by formally convening the outgoing Generals for a respectful send-off, calling it a commendable and thoughtful gesture.
The meeting concluded with a luncheon hosted by Major General Agyapong at his office.
It was attended by senior members of the military hierarchy, including the Service Chiefs and the Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters.
In a cordial atmosphere of reflection and goodwill, the CDS wished the retiring Generals success in their future endeavours.
