The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) wants the appointments of heads of security agencies such as the Inspector General of Police to be decoupled from the powers of the president.
CODEO is of the strong view the move will ensure that security agencies administer their duties professionally without political interference.
Article 202 (1) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana states: “The Inspector-General of Police shall be appointed by the President acting in consultation with the Council of State.”
Addressing a press conference in Koforidua, CODEO’s John Larvie and Nicholas Akyire said the emergence of vigilante groups is a threat to the country’s peace and security.
They said during a stakeholders’ consultation, political parties revealed their lack of confidence in the security agencies, especially the police hence the formation of internal security groups.
Stakeholders also called for the need to ensure that heads of the various security agencies are not appointed by the president to ensure that they operate without political expediency and influences.
Meanwhile, CODEO has reiterated its call for a ban and disbandment of political vigilantism in Ghana by the police service.
CODEO is therefore calling on “all stakeholders, including the political parties, security agencies, and the public at large to as a matter of urgency, address these growing canker.”
