Dr George Akuffo Dampare has been removed as the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The choice was introduced in a press release signed by the Minister of Authorities Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, and dated Thursday, 13 March.
He shall be changed by Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who has been appointed by President John Mahama in accordance with Articles 91 and 202 of the 1992 Structure, following session with the Council of State.
This marks the top of the tenure of Dr George Akuffo Dampare, who was appointed by former President Nana Akufo-Addo on 21 July 2021, together with his tenure taking impact from 1 August 2021.
Because the Ghana Police Service transitions to new management, listed below are six key highlights of Dr Dampare’s tenure as Inspector Common of Police.
1. Enhancing Police Headquarters and Public Picture
Dr Dampare prioritised bettering infrastructure and the overall image of the Ghana Police Service. The refurbishment of the Police Headquarters symbolised his dedication to modernising the pressure.
His management additionally sought to current the police as knowledgeable physique devoted to public service, considerably bettering public notion.
2. Celeb Arrests and Police Officer Interdiction
Dr Dampare’s tenure first captured public consideration with the arrest and prosecution of musicians Shatta Wale and Medikal. Shatta Wale was charged with publishing false information and inflicting concern and panic, whereas Medikal was arrested for brandishing a weapon on social media.
Since then, many Ghanaians praised the police for taking a proactive method to regulation enforcement.
A number of officers had been additionally interdicted for misconduct, together with Detective Corporal Baba Amando Ibrahim from the Tuna Police Station within the Savannah Area, who was most just lately accused {of professional} misconduct.
3. IGP Leaked Tape and Accusations of Extrajudicial Killings
One of the controversial incidents throughout Dr Dampare’s tenure was the leaked tape scandal. The tape allegedly captured a plot by senior police officers—COP Mensah, Supt Asare, and Supt Gyebi—to take away the IGP from workplace.
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This prompted Parliament to arrange a bipartisan committee, led by Samuel Atta Kyea, to research the matter.
After months of hearings, Dr George Akuffo Dampare was exonerated by the committee, sparking combined public reactions.
4. Controversy over Officer Promotions
Promotions throughout the police pressure throughout Dr Dampare’s tenure had been met with criticism, with accusations that he had disrupted the established order. Inner dissatisfaction grew amongst officers, elevating issues about equity and morale throughout the service.
Notably, on 15 Might 2023, 82 law enforcement officials sued the IGP for failing to advertise them. Led by Deputy Inspector Kofi Osal, the officers claimed they had been unfairly denied promotions and entry into the Police School after finishing their research in the course of the 2017/2018 tutorial yr.
5. Centralisation of Police Communication
The centralisation of police communication was one other contentious difficulty. Whereas meant to streamline info stream and stop miscommunication, it confronted criticism for limiting regional instructions’ autonomy.
This method was categorized by some as overly bureaucratic, doubtlessly delaying swift motion in pressing conditions.
6. Launch of Ghana Police TV
One other notable initiative underneath Dr Dampare’s management was the introduction of Ghana Police TV. This platform aimed to enhance transparency and public engagement by showcasing police actions, educating residents on regulation enforcement, and highlighting the service’s achievements.
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Conclusion
Dr George Akuffo Dampare’s tenure as Inspector Common of Police was marked by important reforms, daring initiatives, and moments of controversy.
As COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno steps into the position, Ghanaians shall be watching carefully to see how he builds on these efforts and addresses the challenges forward.
The way forward for policing in Ghana now enters a brand new section—one which shall be outlined by how successfully the service continues to uphold regulation and order whereas sustaining public belief.
