Paragraph 1: Averted Crisis and Commendation for the IGP
Nana Ohene Ntow, a former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has lauded the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, for his exceptional security arrangements during the December 7th elections. Ntow credits Dampare’s meticulous planning and strategic deployment of security personnel with averting a potential national crisis. He emphasized the IGP’s firmness in controlling the deployment of the military, ensuring their involvement only under his direct instruction, despite pressure from various quarters. Ntow believes that Dampare’s actions were pivotal in maintaining peace and stability during a potentially volatile election period. He called upon Ghanaians to recognize and appreciate Dampare’s significant contribution to national security.
Paragraph 2: Expertise and Boldness Amidst Political Pressures
Ntow further highlighted the widespread admiration for the IGP’s leadership within political circles. He noted that Dampare’s expertise and resolute stance in managing security affairs have impressed various political parties. Ntow emphasized the challenging environment under which the IGP operated, suggesting that Dampare faced considerable pressure during the electoral process. Despite these pressures, Dampare remained steadfast in his commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure election, garnering respect from across the political spectrum. Ntow’s commendation underscores the significance of competent and impartial leadership in maintaining national security and stability, particularly during critical periods like elections.
Paragraph 3: Academic Defense and Unwarranted Criticism
Professor Ransford Gyampo, a political science lecturer at the University of Ghana, echoed Ntow’s sentiments, staunchly defending the IGP against recent criticisms from ACP Dr. Benjamin Agordzo. Gyampo described Agordzo’s comments as unfair and unwarranted, emphasizing the IGP’s transformative leadership within the Ghana Police Service. Gyampo’s defense highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting leaders who demonstrate integrity and effectiveness in their roles. He contrasted Dampare’s performance with that of previous IGPs, suggesting that Dampare’s leadership has marked a significant improvement in the police service’s image and operational effectiveness.
Paragraph 4: Transformative Leadership and Enhanced Reputation
Professor Gyampo elaborated on the positive impact of Dampare’s leadership, highlighting the significant enhancement of the Ghana Police Service’s reputation and operational effectiveness. He credited Dampare with restoring public confidence in the police force, a crucial factor in maintaining law and order. Gyampo praised the IGP’s resilience in the face of challenges and his unwavering commitment to fairness throughout the electoral process. He underscored Dampare’s courageous defiance of orders that he perceived as conflicting with his principles as a law enforcement officer, portraying him as a principled leader committed to upholding the rule of law.
Paragraph 5: Impartiality, Professionalism, and Resistance to Political Interference
Gyampo emphasized the widespread recognition of Dampare’s impartiality and professionalism, noting that even opposition parties have commended his conduct. This broad-based support, according to Gyampo, testifies to Dampare’s commitment to serving the nation impartially, irrespective of political affiliations. Gyampo further revealed Dampare’s resistance to alleged attempts by higher authorities to influence the electoral process through the deployment of soldiers. He portrayed Dampare as a bulwark against potential political interference in the elections, suggesting that his actions were instrumental in ensuring a free and fair electoral process.
Paragraph 6: Surviving Removal Attempts and Impactful Reforms
Gyampo underscored the unique nature of Dampare’s tenure, claiming that he is the only IGP to have survived attempts at removal by the appointing authority due to his effective performance. This claim, if true, underscores the potential political pressures faced by individuals in positions of authority and highlights Dampare’s resilience in upholding his professional integrity. Gyampo attributed the widespread positive impact of Dampare’s reforms to his unwavering commitment to improving the police service. He concluded by emphasizing the tangible effects of these reforms across the country, further cementing Dampare’s legacy as a transformative leader within the Ghana Police Service.
