BTA2023 Prominent members of IMANI Africa, including Vice President Kofi Bentil and Founding President Franklin Cudjoe, have cautioned President John Dramani Mahama against removing the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, from office.
Concerns Over Political Interference
In a Facebook post, Kofi Bentil warned that dismissing Dr. Dampare would mirror the controversial removal of former Auditor-General, Daniel Domelevo, under the previous administration, which was later ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
“We should try not to become what we criticized before. Domelevo was sacked for doing his job! The Supreme Court ruled it as wrong. What has the IGP done, except doing his job very well? I hope the NDC won’t repeat the evils of the NPP!” Bentil wrote.
He urged President Mahama to uphold due process and allow the Supreme Court to rule on an ongoing case regarding the dismissal of security chiefs before making any decision. The court’s verdict is expected on May 7, 2025.
“The government should respect the rule of law and wait for the ruling of the Court,” he emphasized.
Support for Dr. Dampare’s Leadership
Bentil praised Dr. Dampare’s professionalism and effective leadership of the Ghana Police Service, arguing that he deserves to remain in office.
“This IGP has been great at his job and should have been retained for all our sakes. Even if President Mahama wants to repeat the mistakes of the NPP, he should at least signal that he accepts the rule of law and wait for the Supreme Court to rule,” he added.
Franklin Cudjoe’s Defense of Dr. Dampare
Echoing similar sentiments, Franklin Cudjoe described Dr. Dampare as a “consummate professional” who has significantly improved the Ghana Police Service.
“It would be sad if someone who has been a true professional, risen through the ranks, changed the face of policing, and crucially survived all daggers from within and outside the service, is relieved of his position without any adverse findings,” Cudjoe remarked.
He called for professionalism over partisanship, urging the government to retain Dr. Dampare based on his merit and dedication.
“There are few good men — keep them when you find them,” he concluded.
Call for Respecting the Rule of Law
Both Bentil and Cudjoe emphasized that removing Dr. Dampare without clear justification would undermine public confidence and the rule of law, urging President Mahama to prioritize institutional integrity over political interests.
