The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called for unity, calm, and responsible communication in the wake of the tragic incident that occurred during the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment exercise at the El-Wak sports stadium.

Expressing frustration over the growing politicisation of the tragedy on the floor of Parliament, the speaker urged members of parliament (MPs) to demonstrate leadership and compassion rather than division.

Mr Bagbin reminded lawmakers that in moments of national grief, the country looked up to them for guidance and reassurance. 

He emphasised that leaders ought to “lead by example,” showing unity, empathy, and mutual respect in their words and actions.

He cautioned against using aggressive or partisan language when discussing the incident, stressing that effective communication required persuasion, not shouting or hostility. 

According to him, parliamentary debates had to reflect sensitivity toward the affected families and focus on finding solutions to prevent such occurrences in the future.

“We must remember that we are speaking not only to our colleagues but to the entire nation. This is a time to comfort, not to divide,” the speaker admonished.

Six individuals lost their lives, with many others sustaining injuries during a GAF recruitment exercise on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, in Accra, when a stampede ensued. GAF observed a section of the thousands of youth who had gathered for a chance at military enlistment breached security protocols and rushed to the gates ahead of the scheduled time causing the fatal chaos.

In Kumasi, a similar exercise saw three injured and taken to hospital for treatment, after a stampede.

Mr Bagbin’s call for sensitivity and decorum adds to the growing appeal for national unity and collective action to ensure accountability, proper investigation, and safety reforms in future recruitment processes.