Ga Mantse welcomes new Commanding Officer of 5 Infantry Battalion, commends Military for protection of Ga State

The Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has commended the Ghana Armed Forces for their continuous support and protection of the Ga State, describing their efforts as crucial to maintaining peace and security in the region.

He made these remarks when the new Commanding Officer of the 5 Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel P. S. K. Adablah, paid a courtesy call on him at his palace in Accra on Wednesday.

The visit formed part of the officer’s official introduction to the Ga Mantse and to seek the King's blessings as he assumes his new leadership role.

Addressing the delegation, the Ga Mantse acknowledged the strong partnership that has developed over time between the military and traditional authorities in the Ga State.

“The military and I, and our chiefs in the Ga State, have started a foundation. We've started a relationship. And I believe those courtesies, like you said, would continue with you,” the King said.

He expressed deep appreciation to the men and women of the 5 Infantry Battalion for their dedicated service, noting that their presence has not only ensured his personal safety but also safeguarded the entire Ga State.

“Your men with me have done tremendously well. They haven't only protected me, but they have protected the whole Ga State. Because I think that I am critical when it comes to the Ga State,” he stated.

The Ga Mantse welcomed Lt. Col. Adablah and his team, assuring them of continued collaboration and mutual respect.

“I welcome you and your men to be part of this family. And we promise that we will share the same courtesies with you,” he added.

The engagement further strengthens the bond between the Ghana Armed Forces and traditional leadership, as both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together for the safety, peace, and development of the Ga State and Ghana as a whole.

On his part, the newly appointed Commanding Officer of the 5 Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel P. S. K. Adablah, acknowledged the Ga Mantse as the rightful custodian of the land and underscored the importance of seeking his blessing and support before commencing duty.

He noted that it was only proper and respectful to present himself to the traditional authority and express his readiness to work together for the safety and area.

“So that is our simple mission of coming here— to pay homage, introduce myself to him before I commence my duty, and to seek his blessings and protection so that together we can keep this area safe,” he said.

He expressed his gratitude to the King for the support given to the 5 Infantry Battalion over the years, especially the welfare of troops on duty in the area, and appealed for similar cooperation during his tenure.

“With humility, I also request that the same courtesies that were accorded the outgoing Commanding Officer be extended to me. His Royal Majesty can count on us—rain or shine, day or night— we are ready to respond and support in any way we can,” he assured.

Lt. Col. Adablah pledged the battalion’s unwavering commitment to peace and security in the Ga State and its surrounding communities.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith