IGP Traffic Regulation During Inauguration a Disguised Campaign for Reappointment- FDAG
The Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG) says it deems the Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akufo Dampare’s decision to direct traffic during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama as a disguised campaign to land a reappointment from the new head of state.
In a press statement, issued on January 8, 2025- a day after the inauguration ceremony- the Forum condemned the action of the police boss as a “disgraceful” episode.
“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.”
It posited that the IGP overstepped his boundaries.
“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.”
“This 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.”
According to the Forum, the event at Independence Square was characterized by disorganization and chaos, an overcrowded and clumsy atmosphere, emphasizing the lack of foresight and effective coordination by the police under his watch.
Instead of focusing on theatrics, it insisted that the IGP rather focus on investigating crimes such as the killing of innocent Ghanaians during the 2024 Parliamentary and Presidential elections; the post-election violence; the Adabraka robbery incident; and the recent market fire that gutted the Kantamanto market.
Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini
