Edem Agabana has defended President Mahama’s dismissal of Dampare
The Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Agbana, has justified the dismissal of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, emphasising that President Mahama should have the freedom to work with individuals he trusts.
Dampare’s dismissal has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some criticising President Mahama’s decision to remove the police chief.
Critics argue that Dampare’s tenure brought transformative initiatives within the police force, demonstrating exceptional leadership skills.
Many believe he should have been allowed to continue in his role.
However, in response to the debates surrounding the development, Agbana who supports the president’s decision stressed the importance of allowing the president to appoint and work with individuals he deems fit for the role.
He explained that the president acts in accordance with the Constitution and prioritises the best interests of the country, ensuring he fulfills the promises made to citizens during his oath of office.
“When President Mahama took the oath of office, he promised to keep Ghana safe and work in the interest of the republic. It is important for Ghanaians to allow him to decide the team he wants to work with to achieve the ultimate aim of keeping the country safe and achieving economic goals,” he stated on Metro TV on March 14, 2025.
Agbana further referenced how the previous government, under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, also dismissed an IGP appointed during Mahama’s administration upon assuming power.
He stressed that such decisions are not unprecedented and do not warrant the level of criticism from Ghanaians.
“When President Mahama was in office between 2013 and 2016, he appointed an IGP. When Akufo-Addo assumed office, he dismissed that IGP and appointed another. I don’t understand the sudden difficulty, as if the president’s dismissal of Dampare is something new. Since 1992, successive governments have always had the power to appoint IGPs,” he argued.
The lawmaker highlighted the sensitive nature of the IGP’s role, emphasising its critical importance in ensuring the nation’s security and protecting the lives of its citizens.
“Look, we are talking about a position as sensitive as the IGP’s. It is crucial because these heads are at the core of managing our national security. The President should be allowed to appoint and work with whoever he is comfortable with,” he appealed.
The appointment of IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno was confirmed in a statement issued by the Minister of Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
He indicated in the communiqué that the appointment was made in accordance with the Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State.
“President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Articles 91 and 202 of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, appointed Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the Inspector-General of Police.
“He replaces COP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. COP Yohuno brings forty years of experience to the position of IGP and is expected to oversee the modernization and transformation of the Ghana Police Service,” the statement read.
MAG/MA
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