After 38 years of dedicated service to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the nation, Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, has officially retired from the military.
In line with military tradition, the GAF honoured him with a farewell parade and pull-out ceremony at Burma Camp in Accra.
Dressed in full military ceremonial attire, the outgoing CDS appeared elated upon arrival at the parade grounds, where he was received by senior military officers, both serving and retired, along with leaders of various security agencies, government officials, colleagues, family, and well-wishers.
The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and members of the diplomatic corps were also in attendance.
After taking the general salute and inspecting the parade, General Oppong-Peprah received gifts from the military command, security agencies, and other organisations in recognition of his contributions to the GAF and national security.
As part of the formal handover, he officially passed the command baton to Major General William Agyapong, marking a smooth transition of leadership.
The event concluded with a symbolic pull-out ceremony, signifying his retirement.
Profile
General Oppong-Peprah’s distinguished military career began at the Ghana Military Academy in 1984, where he graduated as the Best Officer Cadet in 1986.
Commissioned into the Armoured Corps, he pursued advanced military training at institutions such as the US Army War College, the Royal College of Defence Studies in London, and the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College.
He holds a Master’s degree in International Security and Strategy from King’s College, London, and an Executive MBA from the University of Ghana.
Throughout his career, he held key command and staff positions, including Commanding Officer of the 64 Infantry Regiment and the Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment; Director of Strategic Intelligence; Director of Operations and Plans; Chief Staff Officer at Army Headquarters; and General Officer Commanding the Southern Command.
He later became Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters before his appointment as Chief of the Army Staff in 2020.
Beyond military service, he contributed to national security as Coordinator of State Transport Security and served on the board of the National Disaster Management Organisation.
He also played a role in international peacekeeping under UN missions in Rwanda, Libya, Chad, Western Sahara, and Lebanon.
On February 1, 2024, he was appointed Chief of the Defence Staff.
Gratitude
Reflecting on his tenure, General Oppong-Peprah described his leadership as a period of growth and commitment to national security.
“We have navigated complex security landscapes both domestically and regionally, working tirelessly to enhance our capabilities, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the safety of our citizens.
“Our performance in the recent general election was exemplary, demonstrating our firm commitment to democracy and the rule of law,” he stated.
He highlighted key achievements, including the expansion of GAF through new units and formations, supported by significant infrastructure development to address evolving security threats.
“To all officers, soldiers, and Defence Civilian Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, I salute you for your loyalty, professionalism, and unwavering support.
“There were difficult moments, but I drew strength from your dedication and commitment. You inspired me to remain focused and determined to improve your welfare. God bless you all,” he added.
General Oppong-Peprah expressed confidence that under the leadership of the new CDS, the GAF would continue to thrive.
“I urge you all to give him your full support by upholding the highest standards of integrity and discipline.
“Remember, our role extends beyond defence—it is about safeguarding the future of our nation,” he said.
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