Ghana Armed Forces Resume Soldier Releases May After 5-Year Pause

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has announced the resumption of general releases for soldiers who have completed their mandated service periods, marking the end of a five-year suspension. The decision, detailed in a press release issued on April 30 by the Department of Public Relations at the General Headquarters in Burma Camp, Accra, will see the first batch of releases commence in May 2025. This group includes distinguished personnel from the 1995 and 1996 year groups, who have either served 30 years with merit or reached the compulsory retirement age as outlined in GAF regulations.

The suspension of general releases was enacted five years ago, following the implementation of Constitutional Instrument (CI) 129. This legal measure extended the service terms of military personnel by an additional five years, a move aimed at retaining experienced soldiers during a period of strategic need. With the suspension now lifted, the GAF will proceed with the honorable discharge of eligible soldiers, with subsequent year groups to follow upon completion of their service terms.

The GAF highlighted the significant contributions of these retiring soldiers, noting their dedication to national security and international peacekeeping efforts. Over the decades, Ghanaian troops have played key roles in stabilizing the country, often under challenging conditions, while also participating in numerous United Nations and African Union missions. These deployments have bolstered global peace and security, enhancing Ghana’s reputation as a reliable contributor to international stability.

In a statement, the Chief of the Defence Staff, on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, expressed gratitude to the retiring personnel for their selfless service. The military leadership also extended appreciation to the families of these soldiers for their unwavering support throughout the years. The release underscored the sacrifices made by these men and women, whose commitment has been instrumental in safeguarding Ghana’s sovereignty.

The resumption of general releases aligns with GAF’s established policies, which balance operational needs with the welfare of its personnel. As the process unfolds, it is expected to pave the way for the integration of younger recruits, ensuring a continued evolution of the force.