The Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG) has issued a scathing critique of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, following his public appearance directing traffic during the inauguration of President John Mahama on January 7, 2025.
The organization has labeled this act as a “shameful dereliction of duty” and a blatant political maneuver designed to garner public favour.
In a widely circulated video, IGP Dampare can be seen managing traffic at the high-profile event, a move that FDAG contends was little more than a poorly disguised attempt to bolster his chances for reappointment.
“Instead of focusing on the critical task of securing the nation and addressing the escalating crime rates under his watch, the IGP has sunk to the depths of political opportunism,” the group stated in a press release.
According to FDAG, the decision to personally direct traffic at such an important event reflects poorly on the Ghana Police Service’s leadership.
“The IGP, by virtue of his position, should be overseeing strategy and operations, not engaging in performative stunts,” said the group.
“His appearance at the scene, during an event of national significance, is a glaring indication of poor planning and lack of strategic foresight within the police force.”
“This was not just a moment of failure in traffic management; it was a public display of incompetence,” the statement read.
The Forum has called on IGP Dampare to immediately cease what it describes as “distracting performances” and to instead provide the people of Ghana with updates on critical investigations, including unresolved cases such as the killings of innocent civilians during the 2024 parliamentary and presidential elections, the post-election violence, the notorious Adabraka robbery, and the recent fire at Kantamanto market.
“In the face of such serious incidents, the IGP’s focus should be on justice and security, not engaging in superficial stunts for self-promotion,” said the FDAG.
In addition to demanding updates on these cases, FDAG also highlighted the ongoing crisis within the police force under Dampare’s leadership.
“The unresolved issues surrounding police promotions and the neglect of officers’ welfare have created a toxic environment that undermines the efficacy of the service,” they said.
“This is a direct result of his leadership failures.”
The group concluded with a call for immediate change at the top of the Ghana Police Service, asserting that IGP Dampare’s current leadership is no longer tenable.
“The time has come for a change—a change in leadership that will restore order, integrity, and public trust in the police force,” FDAG stated, urging for a more experienced and capable leader to take charge.
By: Shadrack Odame Agyare | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
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