In a significant move aimed at restructuring the leadership of Ghana’s military, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic and Commander-In-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, has appointed new Acting Service Chiefs for the Ghana Armed Forces.

The appointments, announced on Monday, March 17, 2025, take effect from March 24, 2025, and are subject to consultation with the Council of State.

The newly appointed service chiefs include Brigadier General William Agyapong as Acting Chief of the Defence Staff, and Brigadier General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu as Acting Chief of Army Staff.

The appointment also includes 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 decision by President Mahama reflects a strategic realignment of the military leadership, which is expected to bring a new vision and approach to the operations of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

According to the statement from the Presidency, the reshuffle follows a meeting between the President and the outgoing Service Chiefs at the Flagstaff House. The outgoing Chief of the Defence Staff, General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, led the delegation.

“Mr Mahama thanked them for their dedicated service to the nation and assured them of his willingness to rely on their varied experiences and depth of knowledge to reset Ghana”.
Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP) Spokesperson to the President & Minister, Government Communications.

New Leadership, Renewed Mandate

The new appointments come at a critical time when Ghana’s security apparatus faces evolving challenges, including terrorism threats in the Sahel region, maritime security concerns, and internal security matters such as armed robbery and cyber threats.

The newly appointed leaders are expected to work towards strengthening the capacity of the Ghana Armed Forces, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and fostering regional and international collaboration.

Brigadier General William Agyapong, the Acting Chief of the Defence Staff, brings vast experience in military operations and strategic defense planning.

His leadership is expected to drive operational excellence and reinforce Ghana’s commitment to regional security partnerships.

Brigadier General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, the new Acting Chief of Army Staff, has a track record of effective leadership in ground operations and military intelligence, making him well-positioned to tackle emerging security threats.

The appointment of Commodore Godwin Livinus Bessing as Acting Chief of Naval Staff comes at a time when Ghana is increasing efforts to protect its maritime resources against illegal fishing, piracy, and smuggling.

With a background in maritime security, his leadership is expected to bolster the navy’s capability in safeguarding Ghana’s coastal waters.

Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong’s appointment as Acting Chief of Air Staff is seen as a step towards enhancing Ghana’s air defence capabilities and disaster response operations.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan, as the Acting Chief of Staff, will play a crucial role in ensuring smooth administrative coordination within the Armed Forces.

The appointments signal President Mahama’s commitment to revitalizing the Ghana Armed Forces and ensuring that the country’s military remains proactive in addressing security challenges.

With these appointments, President Mahama has set in motion a new chapter for the Ghana Armed Forces.

The newly appointed Acting Service Chiefs are expected to bring fresh perspectives and operational strategies to Ghana’s defence and security architecture.