The removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akufo Dampare, from office before the elections, as alleged by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has raised concerns about the credibility of the elections.
The IGP’s removal could compromise the neutrality and impartiality of the police force, disrupting security arrangements and potentially threatening the safety of voters, candidates, and electoral officials.
Additionally, it may be perceived as an attempt to thwart investigations into election-related malfeasance and avoid accountability.
Accordingly, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has sounded a loud warning, cautioning against any attempts to remove the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, from office. The party cited the potential disruption to the country’s electoral process and the need for stability and continuity in the police leadership at this critical juncture.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has been directed to take a mandatory leave of absence, reportedly in connection to his alleged involvement in the 2023 leaked tape scandal. He is to hand over his responsibilities to his deputy Commissioner of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno.
The Ghana Police Service has vehemently denied the reports, reaffirming the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) unwavering dedication to leading the force, as directed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and emphasising that Dr. George Akuffo Dampare remains fully committed to his duties, leading the Ghana Police Service with integrity and dedication.
Nevertheless, the NDC remains unconvinced, questioning the sincerity of the police service’s denial and expressing apprehensions that a covert plan to replace the IGP is underway, which they believe is a component of a broader strategy to influence the outcome of the forthcoming December general election, potentially compromising its integrity and fairness.
As such, Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), lambasted President Akufo-Addo for prioritising personal interests over the well-being of the nation, labelling his actions as reckless and irresponsible.
“We can assure President Akufo-Addo that any attempt to rig the 2024 election will be resisted by the strength and might of the National Democratic Congress without any regret. There is nothing that will prevail over the will of the people”.
Mustapha Gbande
NDC Vows To Protect Democracy
Moreover, Mustapha Gbande sternly warned that the party will vigorously resist and not hesitate to take appropriate action against any attempts to subvert or compromise the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions and processes, emphasising their unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s democratic gains.
“So, if this whole hullabaloo of trying to remove the IGP is about the election, President Akufo-Addo should review his mind and go home as a former president, at least in the minds of Ghanaians, he has made some appointments in the interest of Ghanaians.
“IGP since he assumed his office, at least if you see the reformation of the Ghana Police Service, you see some seriousness. I have been arrested on a number of occasions by the police. You see some level of discipline, even in terms of the appearance of police personnel. It boosts the image of our country and not the NPP and not President Akufo-Addo”.
Mustapha Gbande
Gbande stressed that the excellence of the police force and the IGP’s credibility and accomplishments over the years should not be tied to the President’s personal agenda, but rather should be about serving the greater good of the nation, emphasizing that the country’s interests must take precedence over political affiliations.
The timing of the IGP’s alleged removal, just before the elections, has fueled speculation and heightened tensions.
The NDC’s allegations have eroded public trust in the electoral process, leading to fears of manipulation or rigging.
To maintain the credibility of the elections, it is essential to ensure the police force’s neutrality, transparency, and accountability.
The government and electoral authorities must address these concerns and guarantee a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process.
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