In a significant development within Ghana’s security landscape, Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has defended the President’s decision to appoint Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
This decision has sparked discussions across various sectors, prompting Kwakye Ofosu to address concerns and defend the administration’s choice of succeeding Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
Some anticipated public uproar about Dr. Dampare’s removal to mirror what sprang forth when the last administration attempted to dismiss him.
Regardless of this, Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the President’s decision aligns with constitutional mandates, dismissing critics.
He referenced Article 202 of the 1992 Constitution, which empowers the President to appoint an IGP in consultation with the Council of State.
“And that is exactly what President Mahama has done,” Kwakye Ofosu stated, absolving the president of any accusations of wrongdoing.
He further clarified to address concerns about the necessity of wrongdoing for such a replacement. Service by security chiefs can be terminated just as appointed, upon the prerogative of the President.
“An IGP does not have to have done anything wrong to be replaced. It is not the first time in Ghana’s history that an IGP has been replaced, nor would it be the last”
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesperson
Profile of New IGP
COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served in various capacities within the Ghana Police Service over a distinguished 40-year career.
Kwakye Ofosu highlighted Yohuno’s extensive service, aptly justifying President Mahama’s choice of “someone who can ensure that Ghana’s internal security is fortified.”
“He is the most senior police officer available, and he has demonstrated over the years, in his 40-year career, that he has what it takes to lead the Ghana Police Service to become a relevant, modern, and transformed force”
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesperson
Legal Challenges and Public Reaction
The appointment has not been without controversy. IMANI Africa, in collaboration with security expert Professor Kwesi Aning, filed a suit at the Supreme Court seeking to restrain the President from removing the IGP and other heads of security agencies until a pending case is resolved.
The plaintiffs argue that such removals should be based on proven misconduct or other constitutionally stipulated grounds, rather than at the discretion of the President.
Despite these legal maneuvers, the Presidency remains resolute. The succession of IGP’s has been in this manner, and does not warrant excessive backlash from the public.
“COP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare himself, was appointed to replace someone and, therefore, I see no reason why the specific wrongdoing has to be engaged in before a new IGP can be, as it were, appointed”
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesperson
Kwakye Ofosu dismissed concerns over potential public backlash, asserting that previous administrations have made similar appointments without controversy.
“That some people may like COP Dr. Dampare is no reason why the president cannot effect changes, insofar as he believes those changes will help strengthen the Ghana Police Service, or any other institution for that matter”
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesperson
Appointment of Other Security Chiefs
The swift appointment of COP Yohuno is part of a broader restructuring within Ghana’s security services by the new government.
Alongside the new IGP, President Mahama also appointed new heads for the Ghana Immigration Service, the Ghana National Fire Service, and the Ghana Prisons Service.
These appointments are perceived as efforts to rejuvenate the leadership across key security institutions.
As COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno assumes his role as the new IGP, the Ghanaian public and international observers will be keenly watching how these leadership changes impact the effectiveness and integrity of the country’s security services.
The ongoing legal challenges underscore the delicate balance between executive authority and institutional independence, a dynamic that will continue to shape Ghana’s democratic governance.
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