The Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG) has condemned the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, for his involvement in directing traffic during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
The group labeled the act as a “shameless display” and a “public charade.”
A widely circulated video shows Dr. Dampare directing traffic, a move the FDAG deems not only an attempt to win public favor but also a poorly veiled effort to launch a self-serving campaign for his own political gain.
“This disgraceful episode is not only an attempt to court public favour but also a poorly disguised effort to launch a reappointment campaign for himself. 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, using a national event to further his own self-serving agenda.”
In a statement signed by the Senior Research Fellow at the Forum for Development and Accountable Governance, Nana Kojo Abbam argued that this is an attempt at political theatrics, masquerading as humility, is a blatant disregard for the duties entrusted to him.
“The IGP, by virtue of the hierarchical structure of the Ghana Police Service, sits at the apex of the organization and is responsible for proper planning, strategic oversight, and serious intelligence gathering. If the IGP is seen during a program as high-profile as the presidential inauguration directing traffic, it speaks volumes about poor planning and is a glaring sign of leadership failure.”
“The disorganization and chaos at the venue, characterized by an overcrowded and clumsy atmosphere, further emphasized the lack of foresight and effective coordination by the police under his watch. Such glaring lapses make it evident that the IGP’s approach to leadership is inept and inadequate, leading to a public display of his incompetence.”
“FDAG demands that the IGP immediately cease these distracting performances and provide the Ghanaian people with updates on key investigations, including the killing of innocent Ghanaians during the 2024 Parliamentary and Presidential elections, the post-election violence we witnessed, the Adabraka robbery incident, and the recent market fire that gutted the Kantamanto market, among others. The people of Ghana deserve a police service that is committed to real solutions, not one that engages in superficial campaigns for personal gains.”
“We also demand that the IGP urgently confront the devastating issues that have crippled the Ghana Police Service under his leadership.”
“The unresolved crises surrounding police promotions and the neglect of officers’ welfare have created a toxic, demoralized environment within the force, reflecting his utter failure to lead effectively.”
“The populist attempt through cheap, staged performances is nothing but a desperate and futile effort to conceal his complete failure. It is clear he has reached the end of his rope, with no fresh ideas or solutions to offer. The time has come for a change—a change in leadership that will bring in a new, experienced hand with a proven track record of restoring order, integrity, and public confidence in the service,” he added.
Source: Ghana/Starr FM 103.5FM/Benjamin Sackey
