The Appointment of a New Inspector General of Police in Ghana and Questions Surrounding His Age and Tenure
The recent appointment of Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP) in Ghana has generated considerable interest and discussion, particularly regarding his age and length of service in the Ghana Police Service. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has publicly stated his intention to seek clarification on these matters, citing potential discrepancies between the IGP’s purported 40 years of service and his age. This inquiry has raised important questions about the transparency of the appointment process and the potential implications for the IGP’s tenure.
Afenyo-Markin’s concerns stem from a statement made by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications. Ofosu asserted that Yohuno had served in the police force for an impressive 40 years. This declaration prompted Afenyo-Markin to raise questions about the age at which Yohuno entered the service. If Yohuno indeed served for four decades, a simple calculation suggests that he would have joined the police force at a relatively young age, potentially even below the legal age for enlistment.
Afenyo-Markin emphasized the importance of verifying the accuracy of the information provided by the Minister of State. He highlighted the need to determine the exact age at which Yohuno joined the police force and to ascertain whether his tenure as IGP might be relatively short due to impending retirement. This scrutiny reflects the broader concerns about ensuring that key appointments within the government adhere to established regulations and procedures, particularly regarding age limits and retirement policies.
The appointment of Yohuno as IGP followed the removal of his predecessor, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. Interestingly, Dampare’s removal was met with apparent jubilation within the police service, suggesting potential internal dynamics and sentiments that may have influenced the leadership transition. While the reasons for Dampare’s removal have not been explicitly stated, the contrasting reactions to his departure and Yohuno’s appointment underscore the complex interplay of factors at play within the Ghana Police Service.
Afenyo-Markin’s commitment to seeking clarification regarding Yohuno’s age and length of service emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in public appointments. The questions raised underscore the need for clear and readily available information about the qualifications and background of individuals appointed to high-profile positions. This scrutiny is essential for maintaining public trust in the government’s decision-making processes and ensuring that appointments are based on merit and adherence to established regulations.
The unfolding situation surrounding the new IGP’s appointment highlights the significance of accurate record-keeping and the need for clear communication from government officials. Afenyo-Markin’s pursuit of clarification serves as a reminder of the role of parliamentary oversight in ensuring transparency and accountability within government institutions. The outcome of this inquiry will undoubtedly have significant implications for the future of the Ghana Police Service and the public’s perception of the government’s commitment to upholding established rules and procedures.
