The Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, has cautioned the Akufo-Addo-led administration against the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
In an interview with the media on Monday, September 18, 2023, Mr Agyapong asserted that there would be no valid reason for replacing Dr. Dampare citing the remarkable performance he has displayed during his tenure.
As the head of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Defense and Interior, Agyapong, who is also a flagbearer hopeful of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), emphasized that Dr. Dampare is the best IGP he has witnessed.
He cautioned against making the error of removing him, highlighting Dr. Dampare’s achievements in reducing armed robbery rates, enhancing the police headquarters, and maintaining a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Mr Agyapong’s remarks were made in response to discussions regarding a leaked tape that allegedly revealed a plot to oust IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
In the video, a retiring Police Commissioner, self-identified as Mensah, and Bugri Naabu were heard deliberating the removal of Dr. Dampare due to concerns that he might enforce strict measures during the 2024 elections.
The Police Commissioner contended that Dr. Dampare’s commitment to fairness and preventing electoral irregularities could hinder their political interests.
Mr Agyapong further mentioned that the IGP had been summoned by a parliamentary committee investigating the leaked tape, as two police officers involved in the recording made allegations against him.
These officers accused Dr. Dampare of conspiring with Burgi Naabu, the former Northern Regional Chairman of the NPP, to create the video and criticized his leadership style as autocratic.