The Dean of the University of Cape Coast Business School, Prof. John Gtasi is cautioning Ghanaians not to be what he describes as “praise singers in Akufo-Addo‘s appointment of the IGP”, COP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
In an interview with Awake News, Prof Gatsi said “Our democracy must produce politicians who can see the good in others” and to him “This is demonstrated by some NDC politicians both in parliament and outside parliament.”
He stated that “Dr. Dampare indeed is a serious-minded police officer and an academic over the period” who “indeed deserves commendation and genuine congratulations” for his appointment as the new Acting Inspector General of Police.
According to him, “The experiences of Ghanaians in the hands of the police and some elements of the Security arrangement should teach some of the NDC politicians to stop making statements to mean Dr. Dampare is coming to serve the interest of the NDC.” adding that “The one who appointed the two previous IGPs is the same.”
The lawyer and economist emphasized that “The main problem with the professional work of an IGP is the overdose of political interference and we cannot tell for sure whether or not the new IGP will be able to withstand the culture of interference.”
“Instead of expressing absolute optimism about this appointment, kindly remind Dr. Dampare about the huge expectation to resolve outstanding killings, those who died during the 2020 elections, threat to journalists among others.” – Prof. Gatsi told Awake News
“I still believe Dr. Dampare is a great police officer but the job of the opposition is not to give him a pass mark immediately after the appointment.
An opposition after recognizing the experience and qualifications should encourage citizens to voice out outstanding security issues and their expectations that the new IGP must deal with promptly.” – He added
Last week President Akufo-Addo announced the appointment of Dr. George Akuffo Dampare to take over from Mr. James Oppong Boanu as IGP. Many Ghanaians including top opposition political figures have praised the President for getting it right this time in appointing someone they believe can do the work.