The Catholic Bishops Conference of Ghana has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families that lost their children in the tragic stampede that occurred on Wednesday, November 12, at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra.
This is contained in a statement issued on November 13.
“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 statement, signed by the President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, emphasized the bishops’ pastoral commitment to safeguarding human life and promoting moral responsibility within society.
“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 Conference expressed hope that justice and compassion would guide the nation’s response to the tragedy.
“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.”
Providing an update in Parliament, the Acting Minister of Defence, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, disclosed that as of yesterday, thirty-four (34) casualties had been recorded, including six (6) confirmed deaths. Five (5) individuals remain in critical condition at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), twelve (12) are in fairly critical condition, while the rest are stable and under observation.
He also announced the launch of an internal investigation into the tragic incident, which occurred during a recruitment exercise organized by the Ghana Armed Forces.
Meanwhile, members of the Military High Command and government officials from the Gender and Children Ministry have identified the families of the deceased and are visiting them in their homes to offer condolences and support.
By Yvonne Neequaye
