The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have appointed Major General Thomas Oppong-Peprah as their Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), with effect from Thursday, February 1, 2024.
This is a component of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s modifications to the military structure. Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communications at the Presidency, revealed this in a press release on Wednesday night (January 24, 2024).
According to the terms of Article 212 of the Constitution of the Republic, this appointment has been made subject to consultation with the Council of State, the statement continued.
It stated it came about as a result of Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, the present Chief of Defense Staff, retiring from the Ghana Armed Forces on Thursday, February 1, 2024, after serving his full tour of duty.
The announcement further stated that President Akufo-Addo has conveyed his sincere gratitude to him for his dedicated and honorable service to the Ghana Armed Forces and the country.
Additionally, the President has designated Major General Bismarck Kwasi Onwona to succeed Major General Thomas Oppong-Peprah as Chief of Army Staff, effective Thursday, February 1, 2024.
By Article 212 of the Republic’s Constitution, this appointment has also been made contingent on consultation with the Council of State.
Before receiving his new position, Major General Onwona served as the Commandant of the Staff College and Ghana Armed Forces Command.
As Chief of Naval Staff and Chief of Air Staff, respectively, Rear Admiral Issah Adams Yakubu and Air Vice Marshal Frederick Asare Kwasi Bekoe continue in their roles.
From 2002 to 2009, he served as the 64 Infantry Regiment’s commanding officer. From 2004 to 2005, he also held the position of Commanding Officer for the Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment.
In addition, Thomas Oppong-Peprah served as the Army Combat Training School, Teshie’s Disaster Management Course Instructor (2001–2005), and State Transport Security Coordinator (2001–2008).
Additional positions held include Director, of Defense Intelligence Department, Strategic Intelligence Assessment (2009–2011) and Director, of Defense Industries Department, General Headquarters (2011–2013).
At the Army Headquarters, he was also appointed Director of Army Training from September 14 to February 16 and Director of Army Peacekeeping Operations from February to July 16. From July 16 to February 17, he served in the same headquarters as Chief Staff Officer.
