The immediate past Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare has expressed gratitude to Ghanaians and all stakeholders for their support during his tenure, following the announcement of his replacement.
In a statement signed by his Executive Assistant Nana Osei Afrifa on Friday, the former IGP acknowledged the overwhelming outpouring of love and encouragement he had received, particularly in the past 24 hours since Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister of state in charge of Government Communications, announced the appointment of Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohunu as the new IGP.
Dr. Dampare extended special appreciation to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for granting him the opportunity to serve as IGP and for making history as the youngest IGP in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
He also thanked President John Dramani Mahama for the cordial working relationship during their brief time together.
Dr. Dampare commended the vital role of religious and traditional leaders, describing their prayers, wisdom, and counsel as indispensable throughout his service.
The Former IGP also acknowledged the cooperation of heads of sister security agencies, civil society organisations, and the international community, including diplomatic missions, for their engagement and constructive input.
Reflecting on his 35 years in the Ghana Police Service, Dr. Dampare recounted his rise from General Constable to IGP, serving as Director-General in multiple departments and holding a record two stints as Director-General for Welfare and Administration.
He commended the dedication of the Police Management Board and the rank and file of the Service, acknowledging their immense contributions to security, law and order under his leadership.
Dr Dampare reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to Ghana, confirming his readiness to serve the nation with discipline, honour and integrity.
New IGP
President Mahama last Thursday appointed COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu as IGP to replace Dr Dampare, who served from 2021.
The decision was made in consultation with the Council of State, in line with Articles 91 and 202 of the 1992 Constitution.
The new IGP was Deputy IGP in charge of operations since July 2024 and has held key positions within the Ghana Police Service, including Director-General of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) and Police Operations.
He holds an Executive MBA in Project Management and has received several commendations, including a Grand Medal for his role in combating armed robbery and other criminal activities in Ghana.
New IGP pledges to uphold integrity of Police profession
Maintaining police integrity
Meanwhile, the new IGP has GP) pledged to uphold the values, traditions, and culture of the Ghana Police Service, consistent with the resetting agenda of President Mahama.
This, he said was in alignment with the transformation and modernisation of the Ghana Police Service.
“In this regard, the guiding principles will include discipline and respect for seniority within the hierarchical structure of the Service,” IGP Yohunu stated in his acceptance speech during his inauguration at the Presidency in Accra by President John Dramani Mahama.
He assured the President that professionalism, transparency, accountability, and fairness shall underpin his administration and focus on renewing attitudes and performance, thereby positioning the Service to meet the aspirations of the Ghanaian people and foster peace and security in the country.
“Let me reaffirm a fundamental truth: policing is a shared and collective responsibility,” he said.
“Consequently, community engagement and community policing and partnership will be an essential strategy for communities to participate in crime prevention and fighting.”
He expressed his profound gratitude to the President for the honour bestowed on him by appointing him to the prestigious position as the IGP.
Yohunu praises Dampare
IGP Yohunu also acknowledged the remarkable achievements of his predecessors, whose dedication and excellence had paved the way for their present endeavours.
He pledged to uphold discipline and professionalism in the Police service.
“I will strive to uphold the values and standards that have defined this Office for generations. I will do everything within my power to ensure that our security remained responsive and proactive,” IGP Yohunu said.
“I am both honoured and eager to embark on this new chapter in policing, and I look forward to collaborating with each of you to cultivate a safer and more secure environment for the people of Ghana,” he added.
