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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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