A high-profile gathering of dignitaries on Friday, February 7, 2025, assembled at the St. Catherine Catholic Church, Burma Camp, to pay their last respects to the late former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Arnold Quainoo.
Dignitaries, including President John Mahama, Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, and various personalities from diverse backgrounds, were present to bid him a dignified farewell.
In his address, President Mahama called on Ghanaians to uphold patriotism, diligence, and ethical conduct in all facets of life. He warned against the growing pursuit of material gain at the expense of national progress.
In a glowing tribute, the President reflected on the legacy of Lt. Gen. Quainoo, emphasizing the need for citizens to reject selfishness and embrace a spirit of service to the nation.
“And for those of us who had the opportunity to associate with him, he inspired us in the sense of being able to lead our lives selflessly and as patriots of our country,” he stated.
Lt. Gen. Quainoo passed away on December 2, 2024, aged 85.
Known as the “Buffalo Soldier,” Lt. Gen. Quainoo played a pivotal role in the country’s military history, contributing to both national and regional stability. He served twice as Army Commander, first in 1979 following the coup d’état by the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC), which overthrew the Supreme Military Council. He was also the first commander of the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), which intervened in Liberia to help end the civil war.
Lt. Gen. Arnold Quainoo, a distinguished military leader, is remembered for his unwavering dedication to Ghana’s security and development.
His funeral brought together military personnel and citizens who paid their last respects to a man widely regarded as a patriot.