Outgoing Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, was noticeably absent when President John Mahama met with departing security chiefs on Monday, March 17.

The meeting, held to acknowledge the contributions of the outgoing officers, included former Ghana Prisons Service boss Isaac Kofi Egyir, former Fire Service chief Julius A. Kuunuor, and ex-Immigration Service head Kwame Asuah Takyi.

Dr. Dampare’s absence remains unexplained, fueling speculation over his nonattendance at a gathering meant to bid farewell to key security personnel following changes in leadership.

The meeting followed recent appointments by President Mahama, who named DDGP 3 Patience Baffoe-Bonnie as Director-General of Prisons, DCFO Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong as Chief Fire Officer, and DCI Samuel Basentale Amadu as Comptroller-General of Immigration.

Expressing gratitude to the outgoing officials, President Mahama took to Facebook on March 17, stating his appreciation for their service and dedication to national security.

Meanwhile, the decision to replace Dr. Dampare has stirred controversy, with security analysts condemning the move, particularly as a Supreme Court ruling on his removal is still pending. Critics argue that appointing COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new IGP before the court’s verdict amounts to undermining judicial authority.

IMANI Ghana, along with security analyst Prof. Kwesi Aning, has petitioned the Supreme Court, seeking an injunction against the removal of security heads until a final ruling on the matter is delivered in May 2025. The plaintiffs insist that dismissing these officers ahead of the ruling would be unjust and could set a dangerous precedent.