In a recent development that has stirred controversy, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo appointed Commissioner of Police (COP) Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations. This move, announced in a press statement released by the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Mr. Eugene Arhin, on Wednesday, July 17, has been met with allegations of a conspiracy to remove the current Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
Details of the Appointment
The press statement highlighted COP Yohuno’s distinguished career, which spans over three decades, noting his exceptional credentials and dedication to duty. “This appointment is pursuant to the advice of the Police Council at its meeting held today, Wednesday, 17th July 2024, during which COP Yohuno’s exceptional credentials and dedication to duty were acknowledged,” the statement said.
President Akufo-Addo extended his heartfelt congratulations to COP Yohuno, expressing confidence in his ability to discharge his duties effectively. “President Akufo-Addo extends his heartfelt congratulations to COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno on his well-deserved appointment and wishes him the very best in the discharge of his duties,” the statement concluded.
Allegations of Conspiracy
Security Expert Richard Kumadoe, speaking on the Hot Hot Edition on 3FM on the same day, alleged that this appointment is part of a larger scheme to oust IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. Kumadoe suggested that the appointment of COP Yohuno feeds into the conspiracy theory that the government is preparing the grounds for the removal of the IGP.
“This feeds into the conspiracy theory that they are preparing the grounds for the removal of the IGP,” Kumadoe asserted during his appearance on the show.
Support for Election Security
Contrary to Kumadoe’s allegations, a former police officer and current lawmaker for Wa West, Peter Toobu, provided a different perspective on the appointment. Speaking on the same show, Toobu argued that the appointment could be a strategic move to bolster the IGP’s team with experienced hands to manage election security effectively.
“Probably, the President is looking at the fact that we are in an election year, and he is seeking to empower people to support the IGP to deliver,” Toobu said. He emphasized the need for experienced officers to support the IGP, especially in an election year when security concerns are heightened.
Implications and Reactions
The appointment of COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno has thus sparked a debate about the motivations behind the decision and its potential implications for the leadership of the Ghana Police Service. As the country approaches a critical election period, the stability and effectiveness of the police leadership will be under scrutiny, with the public and political observers keenly watching how these developments unfold.
The divergent views presented by Kumadoe and Toobu reflect broader concerns about the politicization of security appointments and the need for a stable and competent police force to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. As these discussions continue, the focus remains on maintaining law and order during this crucial period in Ghana’s democratic journey.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com