The unexpected dismissal of Dr. George Akuffo Dampare as Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Ghana and the subsequent appointment of Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno have sparked controversy and raised concerns about the process and communication surrounding the transition. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader in Parliament, criticized the manner in which the dismissal was conveyed, noting the absence of any acknowledgement or expression of gratitude for Dr. Dampare’s service in the official communication from the President’s office. The terse statement, signed by presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, simply announced the appointment of COP Yohuno, leaving many to question the rationale behind Dr. Dampare’s removal and the perceived lack of courtesy extended to him.
The lack of transparency surrounding the dismissal has fueled speculation and raised concerns about the potential politicization of such a critical position. Afenyo-Markin’s critique highlights the importance of acknowledging the service of outgoing officials, particularly those holding sensitive security roles, as a matter of respect and to maintain public trust in the integrity of the appointment process. The absence of such acknowledgement in Dr. Dampare’s case has contributed to the perception of a peremptory dismissal, leaving room for speculation and potentially undermining public confidence in the government’s handling of the situation.
COP Yohuno, a veteran police officer with four decades of experience, now faces the challenging task of leading the Ghana Police Service through a period of modernization and transformation. His appointment, while welcomed by some, has also been met with skepticism and calls for greater transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding Dr. Dampare’s removal. The public’s reaction underscores the sensitivity surrounding appointments to key security positions and the expectation of a clear and justifiable process. The controversy surrounding the transition highlights the need for a more robust and transparent framework for appointing and dismissing security chiefs, one that ensures accountability and minimizes the potential for political interference.
The debate surrounding the IGP transition also brings into focus the broader issue of depoliticizing security appointments. Organizations like IMANI Africa have advocated for a non-partisan approach to these crucial roles, arguing that it is essential for maintaining the integrity and impartiality of the security services. Their petition to the Supreme Court to restrain Presidents from directly appointing security chiefs reflects a growing concern about the potential for political influence to compromise the effectiveness and neutrality of these institutions. The call for a more independent and transparent process resonates with the desire for a security apparatus that serves the interests of the nation rather than any particular political agenda.
The swift appointment of COP Yohuno, while constitutionally sound, has done little to quell the unease generated by the abrupt dismissal of his predecessor. The lack of clarity surrounding Dr. Dampare’s removal has fueled speculation and raised questions about the government’s motives. This, coupled with the ongoing debate about depoliticizing security appointments, highlights the need for a more comprehensive and transparent process that ensures accountability and public trust. The controversy surrounding this transition serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining the integrity and impartiality of security institutions, particularly in a democratic context.
Moving forward, the focus should be on ensuring a smooth transition and supporting COP Yohuno in his efforts to modernize and transform the Ghana Police Service. However, the questions surrounding Dr. Dampare’s dismissal remain and warrant further clarification. A thorough and transparent review of the circumstances leading to his removal would not only address public concerns but also contribute to building greater trust in the process of appointing and dismissing key security personnel. Such transparency is vital for strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that security appointments are based on merit and national interest, rather than political expediency.
