Security analyst Prof. Kwesi Aning has reiterated his stance that former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, made significant strides in Ghana’s policing system.
He acknowledged that his perspective might not be widely shared but maintained that standing by principles and integrity is more important than being in the majority.
He pointed to key reforms introduced by Dampare, particularly in police-community relations, building public trust, and upholding human rights.
These, he said, are qualities that align with the President’s expectations for effective policing.
Prof. Aning also expressed disappointment over the manner in which some officers reacted to Dampare’s removal, highlighting incidents that he deemed unprofessional.
“…there are three things I want to speak about. One is the mobbing of the new IGP where I thought the people who behaved that way were undignified and unprofessional.”
Prof. Kwesi Aning
He also raised concerns about an unidentified person distributing money while the crowd was mobbing the new IGP, urging investigations into their backgrounds and motives.
People celebrate changes in leadership for various reasons, he noted, but he questioned whether Dampare’s perceived strictness was the cause of the celebration.
Addressing claims that the police service would now be more relaxed following Dampare’s departure, Prof. Aning warned against interpreting this as a return to corruption or indiscipline.
“[Does] that mean that now there’ll be no discipline? That corruption is going to go on? That those on the roadside are going to intimidate us and extort money from us? And I think the President knows what he’s doing.”
Prof. Kwesi Aning
He commended Dampare’s efforts in implementing a humane form of policing and ensuring that officers performed their duties with professionalism.
However, allegations have surfaced that Dampare selectively promoted officers based on personal biases while denying advancement to others.
One cited case involves the current National Security Coordinator, whose promotion was allegedly stalled for eight years.
Responding to these claims, Prof. Aning emphasized the need for evidence rather than speculation. “We don’t speak truth after power. Bring me the evidence of such claims to be dealt with properly.”
He acknowledged that promotion decisions are often contentious but defended leadership discretion in selecting the most capable officers for key roles.
“There are people who just want the seat. He just did not want seat warmers just to get the promotion because…the law says that after every X number of years, you get promoted.”
Prof. Kwesi Aning
Future of Ghana’s Policing
As the new IGP assumes office, President Mahama has tasked him with modernizing and transforming the Ghana Police Service.
While respecting seniority is crucial, Prof. Aning insisted that effectiveness in delivering on the President’s mandate should be the priority.
“The new IGP has promised us respect for seniority, but there must be a caveat, respect for seniority that delivers on the marching orders from the President about modernization and transformation. And let’s not personalize this.”
Prof. Kwesi Aning
Regarding allegations that Dampare had a personal inner circle of officers, Prof. Aning criticized those who failed to address concerns when they had the opportunity.
He further stressed that multiple oversight institutions, including the Police Council and parliamentary committees, could have intervened if Dampare was indeed guilty of favoritism or misconduct. “So if this is the true face of Dr. Dampare, then multiple institutions that ought to have played their oversight role failed disastrously.”
As Dr. Dampare transitions into retirement, Prof. Aning speculated that his expertise and experience could still be utilized in other capacities, possibly through a diplomatic appointment or an international security role.
Given his background in law enforcement and security management, he might be considered for positions with ECOWAS, the African Union, or the United Nations.
Aning indicated that since Dampare may no longer hold any position within the Ghana Police Service, his future contributions may come in the form of advisory or ambassadorial roles, should he choose to accept them.
Despite the controversies surrounding his tenure, Dampare has expressed his ongoing commitment to serving Ghana, signaling his readiness to contribute to national and regional security in new ways.
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