Tensions are escalating within the Ghana Air Force over the appointment of Air Commodore Eric Agyen-Frempong as Acting Chief of Air Staff.
Information available to Ghanaian RADAR indicates that junior and senior officers alike are expressing deep-seated discontent with President John Dramani Mahama’s decision, citing concerns over Agyen-Frempong’s loyalty to the ruling party.
The controversy surrounding Agyen-Frempong’s appointment stems from his marriage to a prominent member of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
This connection has sparked fears among National Democratic Congress (NDC) supporters that Agyen-Frempong’s allegiance may be divided, potentially compromising the government’s agenda.
Party loyalists argue that Agyen-Frempong’s appointment contradicts the principles of loyalty and commitment to the NDC, while also presenting a potential conflict of interest.
Some have even gone so far as to accuse Agyen-Frempong of harbouring NPP sympathies, citing his conduct during the election period as evidence.
The discontent among NDC supporters has led to calls for President Dramani Mahama to withdraw Agyen-Frempong’s appointment.
A leader of the party’s foot soldiers, Dr. John Krah-Klenam, emphasised that appointing a perceived opposition party member to a key security position could lead to policy conflicts, governance gridlock, and even internal sabotage.
Air Commodore Agyen-Frempong’s qualifications and experience are not in question, having served as Base Commander of the Air Force Base in Accra and holding various other positions within the Ghana Air Force.
However, his alleged affiliation with the NPP has raised concerns about his ability to serve the interests of the ruling party.
As the pressure mounts, President Dramani Mahama is faced with a difficult decision: to revoke Agyen-Frempong’s appointment and risk being seen as bowing to party pressure, or to stand by his decision and risk further alienating his party’s supporters.
