Some aggrieved executives, members and foot soldiers of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) have opposed President John Mahama’s appointment of Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong as Acting Chief of Air Staff.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, some party executives argued that Agyen-Frempong lacks the loyalty and commitment expected of a key figure in the administration.
History
The aggrieved party members claimed that Agyen-Frempong had a history of working against the party’s interests, including openly campaigning against John Mahama in the recent past.
They described his appointment as “disappointing”, adding that his appointment to that office would only paint a bad picture of President Mahama for appointing a man who did not play the type of role the grassroots and staunch members of the party played in ensuring the overwhelming victory in the 2024 general election.
“The appointment of Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong is shocking and disappointing because this is a man who is known for his hatred for John Mahama. We have all seen what he did during the elections; how he campaigned against our leader. We are party people and we know what we are saying,” one party executive further indicated.
They claim that Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong once mobilized thugs to attack individuals who attempted to support Mahama’s campaign. Citing additional concerns, they argued that his lack of deep ties to the NDC made him unfit for such a high-ranking position – or any role within the Mahama administration.
Given these reservations, party loyalists insist that appointing someone perceived as a political adversary is unacceptable. They have, therefore, called on the president to withdraw the appointment immediately.
Appointments
It could be recalled that on Monday, March 17, 2025, President Mahama announced the appointment of new Acting Service Chiefs for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
The changes, which take effect on March 24, 2025, are pending consultation with the Council of State. The newly appointed Acting Service Chiefs include Brigadier General William Agyapong as Acting Chief of the Defence Staff, Brigadier General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu as Acting Chief of Army Staff, Commodore Godwin Livinus Bessing as Acting Chief of Naval Staff, Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong as Acting Chief of Air Staff, and Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan as Acting Chief of Staff.
The announcement followed a meeting between President Mahama and the outgoing Service Chiefs, led by Chief of the Defence Staff, General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, at the Flagstaff House on Monday.
During the meeting, the President expressed his gratitude to the outgoing leaders for their dedicated service to the nation. He commended the outgoing Service Chiefs for their commitment and professionalism, which had significantly contributed to the stability and security of Ghana.
He assured them of his continued reliance on their wealth of experience and expertise as the nation moves forward. He emphasised the importance of the new appointments in strengthening the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces and ensuring the continued protection of the nation’s sovereignty.
He expressed confidence in the ability of the newly appointed Acting Service Chiefs to uphold the values of the GAF and lead with integrity and excellence.
Source : dailystatesman.com
