President John Mahama, accompanied by Acting Defence Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and other government officials, visited injured recruits at the 37 Military Hospital following a tragic stampede at El-Wak Stadium in Accra. The incident occurred during the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment exercise, resulting in six fatalities and numerous injuries .
The stampede, which happened around 6:20 a.m., was triggered by an unexpected surge of applicants breaching security protocols and rushing into the gates. The GAF has suspended the recruitment exercise and announced a one-week extension to accommodate affected applicants.
Details of the Incident:
– Six potential recruits lost their lives, with 28 others injured and receiving medical attention
– 12 people are in critical condition, with five in the Intensive Care Unit
– Security personnel have cordoned off the area, and major roads leading to El-Wak Stadium have been blocked.
Response and Condolences:
The GAF has expressed deep regret and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. President Mahama’s visit to the hospital demonstrates the government’s concern for the victims and their families. The GAF has also promised to investigate the incident to prevent similar tragedies in future recruitment exercises .
The recruitment exercise, initially scheduled to close on October 31, 2025, has been extended by one week due to technical challenges on the recruitment portal. The GAF has assured the public that medical teams are working tirelessly to stabilize affected individuals .
