The sudden dismissal of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare has sparked widespread jubilation among police officers in various barracks.
The news of George Akuffo Dampare’s removal was met with excitement and relief, as many officers felt that his leadership style was too strict and intimidating.
He was accused of running a one-man show.
President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday evening appointed Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohunu as the new Inspector-General of Police (IGP), replacing George Akuffo Dampare who has been at helm of the police administration for about four years.
Sources within the service lamented that many officers felt that Dampare’s emphasis on discipline and professionalism was excessive and created a culture of fear within the service.
“We are relieved that he is gone,” said one police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “His leadership style was too harsh, and many of us felt intimidated and demotivated.”
The jubilation among police officers was palpable, with many taking to social media to express their excitement and relief.
“Good riddance!” wrote one officer on Twitter. “We can finally breathe a sigh of relief now that he’s gone!”
However, not all police officers share the same sentiment.
Some have expressed disappointment and sadness over George Dampare’s dismissal, citing his efforts to reform the police service and promote professionalism.
“I’m sad to see him go,” said another police officer. “He was a good leader who wanted the best for the police service.”
The controversy surrounding Dampare’s dismissal has also sparked debate about the role of the police service in Ghana and the need for effective leadership.
George Akuffo Dampare’s removal has been met with resistance from some quarters, with policy think tank IMANI Africa and security analyst Professor Kwesi Aning filing an injunction at the Supreme Court to prevent the President from dismissing Dampare.
The plaintiffs argue that the President does not have the power to terminate the appointment of key public officers without proven misconduct.
The controversy surrounding Dampare’s removal has highlighted the ongoing debate over the President’s powers and the need for constitutional clarity in the appointment and removal of key public officers. Some have cautioned against the removal of Dampare, citing his exceptional leadership and widespread public approval.
Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, has warned President Mahama against repeating the mistakes of the previous administration, emphasizing the need for professionalism over partisanship.
COP Yohunu, the new IGP, brings 40 years of experience to the position and is expected to oversee the modernization and transformation of the Ghana Police Service.
However, his appointment has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Dampare’s removal.
The Supreme Court has adjourned the case, giving the Attorney-General seven days to file a statement of case.
Background History of Dr. George Akuffo Dampare
Dr. George Akuffo Dampare was appointed as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in August 2021.
Profile of COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu
COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu is a highly experienced police officer with over 40 years of service.
He has held various positions within the Ghana Police Service, including Divisional Commander for Accra Central, Accra Regional Operations Commander, and Director-General of the Motor Traffic and Transport Directorate (MTTD).
Yohunu’s appointment as IGP has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising his experience and leadership skills, while others have expressed concern about his ability to maintain the independence and professionalism of the Ghana Police Service.
