The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has expressed sorrow following the tragic stampede at El-Wak Stadium in Accra during a Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment exercise on Wednesday, November 12.
In a statement, the bishops extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and offered prayers for the injured.
“We, the members of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC), gathered in Plenary Assembly in Damongo, have received with profound sorrow the heartbreaking news of the tragedy that occurred at the El-Wak Stadium, Accra, during the recruitment exercise of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. We unite our hearts with the bereaved families in grief and lift our prayers to Almighty God for the eternal repose of the departed and the swift recovery of all who are injured,” the statement read.
The religious leaders noted that, according to the acting Minister of Defence, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, thirty-four casualties have been recorded, including six confirmed deaths.
Five of the injured remain in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), twelve are in fairly critical condition, and the remainder are stable and under observation. Dr Forson also announced that an internal investigation has been launched into the stampede.
The bishops emphasised their solidarity with all those affected.
“As shepherds of the Church in Ghana, we stand in prayerful solidarity with the affected families who mourn, the wounded who struggle to heal, and all who have been shaken by this loss. We reaffirm our commitment to promoting systems that respect the sanctity of human life, foster accountability, curtail indiscipline, and advance the common good of our beloved country,” the statement added.
“May the Lord of Mercy grant rest to the departed, consolation to the afflicted, and wisdom to those entrusted with the nation’s care. May justice and compassion guide our response and bring healing and peace to our land.”