Mussa Dankwah, Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, has emphasized the importance of evaluating the performance of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) based on public perception of corruption and confidence in the IGP’s ability to combat crime.
According to Dankwah, these factors serve as crucial indicators in determining the effectiveness of an IGP and their impact on reforming the Ghana Police Service.
“These measures will provide the public the means to measure the difference the IGP may be making in changing the corruption in the service and whether the public perceives the IGP is doing his job well.”
Mussa Dankwah
He further announced that Global InfoAnalytics would consistently track rankings of corrupt state institutions in Ghana and assess public confidence in the IGP’s crime-fighting abilities.
Accordingly, Dankwah referenced the most recent poll conducted on the Ghana Police Service, which indicated that 61% of voters expressed confidence in the former IGP.
He pointed out that the transition in leadership presents a significant challenge for the newly appointed Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who must now focus on maintaining or even enhancing public trust in the Ghana Police Service.
He emphasized that the new IGP has a substantial task ahead, as public confidence in law enforcement is not just about individual leadership but also about the broader perception of the institution.
Yohuno’s approach in the coming months will be crucial in determining whether he can build on his predecessor’s legacy or forge a new path to further strengthen the credibility of the police force.
According to Dankwah, an IGP’s public image is intricately linked to the reputation of the entire police service, and how Yohuno handles this transition will set the tone for his tenure. “For us, the public, it is not about whether officers dance on your appointment but the difference you make in fighting crime and corruption in the service.”
Former IGP’s Dismissal Sparks Debate
Furthermore, Mussa Dankwah weighed in on the controversy surrounding the removal of former IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, dismissing claims that his dismissal lacked justification.
“Without ‘just’ cause? Who determines what is ‘just,’ the court or the president? If this is the angle they are pursuing, then, the case is weak.”
Mussa Dankwah
He acknowledged that, like many Ghanaians, he initially held the impression that Dr. Dampare had performed commendably as the Inspector General of Police.
However, he was genuinely surprised by the overwhelming response from both serving and retired police officers regarding Dampare’s leadership.
Their reactions, which ranged from strong criticism to open dissatisfaction, challenged the public perception of his tenure and raised important questions about the internal realities within the police service.
He admitted that the depth of discontent expressed by those within the institution left him at a loss for words, highlighting the stark contrast between public perception and the experiences of those who worked under Dampare’s command.
“So, when they sat behind him [Dampare] during the parliamentary probe, they did so under duress or what? Indeed, we don’t have the men to speak the truth even if it means losing their jobs.”
Mussa Dankwah
As the Ghana Police Service transitions under new leadership, the ability of Christian Tetteh Yohuno to restore and maintain public confidence remains a pressing concern.
Many Ghanaians are eager to see whether he can tackle crime effectively and address corruption within the police force.
The credibility of the police institution has long been a topic of public discourse, with citizens frequently raising concerns over misconduct and lack of accountability.
Yohuno’s success will largely depend on his capacity to implement reforms that not only enhance internal discipline but also build trust between law enforcement and the Ghanaian people.
Additionally, the role of independent monitoring bodies and civil society organizations in tracking police performance will be critical in ensuring that the new IGP delivers on public expectations.
Organizations like Global InfoAnalytics will continue to provide empirical data that reflect public sentiments, helping to hold police leadership accountable.
As the new IGP steps into office, the public will be watching closely, measuring his tenure against his predecessor’s and evaluating whether his leadership will bring genuine change to law enforcement in Ghana.
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