Renowned investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has weighed in on the ongoing debate over the fate of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, asserting that President John Mahama should have the freedom to decide whether to retain or replace him.
In a strongly worded statement, Awuni challenged the sustained campaign by policy think tank IMANI Africa, which has argued for Dampare’s retention based on his reputation as “one of the few good men” in the security service.
According to Awuni, while Dampare may be competent, the decision ultimately rests with the president, who must work with security chiefs he trusts.
“The IGP, like the Chief of Defence Staff, holds a sensitive position. A president should choose those he wants to work with. Until we agree on a non-partisan way of selecting security chiefs, we should not force one president to work with those chosen by his opponents,” Awuni stated.
Drawing from historical examples, he recalled how Commissioner of Police J.W.K. Harlley played a role in Ghana’s first coup that ousted Kwame Nkrumah, underscoring the security risks at the highest levels of governance.
He also revealed that when he faced death threats, he was given the option to select officers he trusted for protection—highlighting the importance of trust in security matters.
While Awuni acknowledged Dampare’s track record, he dismissed the argument that he should be retained solely based on being a “good man,” questioning who gets to define “good” in such a context.
“If Mahama wants Dampare, I have no problem, but we should not force his hands,” he concluded.