Public Agenda NewsPaperPublic Agenda NewsPaper
  • General News
  • Politics
  • Business
  • Health
  • Development Agenda
  • World News
  • Features & Opinions
  • Election watch
  • Editorial
Font ResizerAa
Public Agenda NewsPaperPublic Agenda NewsPaper
Font ResizerAa
  • General News
  • Politics
  • Business
  • Health
  • Development Agenda
  • World News
  • Features & Opinions
  • Election watch
  • Editorial
Search
  • General News
  • Politics
  • Business
  • Health
  • Development Agenda
  • World News
  • Features & Opinions
  • Election watch
  • Editorial
Follow US
Breaking NewsGeneral Newstop stories

Journalist Calls For Apolitical Appointment Of Police Chief

Suleman
Last updated: June 25, 2024 7:34 am
Suleman
Share
5 Min Read
SHARE

Prominent Ghanaian media expert and social commentator, Roger A. Agana, has recently reignited the debate on the appointment process of Ghana’s Inspector General of Police (IGP).

The Chief Executive Officer of the News Ghana argues that the current practice of presidential appointments undermines the independence and efficiency of the police force, proposing instead a merit-based system reflecting international best practices.

The Argument for Reform

More Read

$100m legal war erupts between E&P and Azumah Resources
Ghana to attract more global oil investors after Akoma and Eban 1X discoveries
Govt cracks down on illegal mining task forces amid extortion claims
Dr. Adrian Alter appointed new IMF resident representative for Ghana
Ablekuma North: EC to rerun Parliamentary Election in 19 Polling Stations

Agana’s criticism highlights concerns about political interference in Ghana’s police leadership. He asserts that the appointment of IGPs by the president can lead to a lack of accountability and a focus on political loyalty over professional competence. This, he argues, contributes to the police force’s ability to perform its duties impartially and effectively.

Learning from International Best Practices

According to Mr. Agana, many countries have adopted more transparent and competitive approaches to appointing top police officials.

In the United Kingdom, for example, appointing a Metropolitan Police Commissioner involves a rigorous selection process overseen by the Home Office, including input from various stakeholders.

Similarly, in Canada, the selection of the Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is conducted through an open, merit-based competition managed by the Public Service Commission.

He said these practices emphasize the importance of independence and professional qualifications in police leadership.

According to the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), effective police leaders must possess a blend of education, experience, and integrity. Leadership development is continuous, involving formal education, on-the-job training, and a deep understanding of community needs and law enforcement dynamics​ (IACP)​​ – Police Chief Magazine​.

Historical Context of IGP Appointments in Ghana

Ghana’s history of IGP appointments has seen a range of leaders, each bringing different approaches and outcomes. The current IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, appointed in 2021, has been noted for his initiatives to improve police professionalism and public trust. Previous IGPs, such as James Oppong-Boanuh and David Asante-Apeatu, also made significant contributions, yet faced challenges often attributed to the politicized nature of their appointments.

The Call for Constitutional Review

Roger’s proposal comes at a time when there are broader calls for constitutional review in Ghana. Others are for a complete change in the constitution to redirect the country towards economic stability. Many believe the 1992 Constitution needs updating to reflect current realities and strengthen democratic governance. This includes revisiting the appointment processes for key positions such as the IGP to ensure they are based on merit rather than political considerations.

Security analyst Adam Bonaa, supports Mr. Roger A. Agana’s proposal, noting that political appointments often lead to instability within the police force and preferential handling of criminal cases, especially those involving politicians. “Frequent leadership changes disrupt ongoing operations and negatively impact morale,” Bonaa explained.

Civil society groups have also called for a transparent and accountable process to restore public confidence in the police service.

The Path Forward

Roger Agana’s proposal includes instituting an independent police commission to oversee the appointment process of successive IGPs. This body would ensure that candidates are selected based on merit, qualifications, and a proven track record and effectiveness. Such reforms, he believes, would align Ghana’s police leadership with international standards and enhance the overall performance and public trust in the police force.

Broader Support and Implications

Supporting Agana’s view, experts from various fields have pointed out that depoliticized police leadership could lead to more consistent and effective law enforcement. Studies by the RAND Corporation indicate that well-developed performance measurement approaches, which capture the complexity of modern policing, are essential for evaluating and improving police work​ – (RAND)​.

Conclusion

As Ghana continues to grapple with issues of police reform and public trust, the debate on how to appoint its IGPs is more relevant than ever. By looking to international best practices and ensuring that police leadership is competent and independent, Ghana can strengthen its law enforcement institutions and better serve its citizens.

A constitutional review addressing these concerns could pave the way for more effective and trusted governance, ensuring that future administrations build on these reforms for lasting impact.

Source: Publicagenda.news

Share This Article
Facebook Whatsapp Whatsapp Email Copy Link Print

Latest News

Ghana secures $370M from IMF after successful review
July 8, 2025
Mid-Year budget to clarify road contractor payments – Ampem Nyarko
July 2, 2025
 ISODEC Urges Citizens to Engage More in Local Governance Processes 
July 2, 2025
Mfantseman Youth Trained to Strengthen Local Governance Participation 
July 2, 2025
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Investment-Friendly Environment to Attract Development Financing
July 1, 2025
New UN report charts path out of debt crisis threatening global development
June 30, 2025
World Bank backs Ghana $360m to strengthen macroeconomic stability
June 30, 2025

You Might Also Like

Breaking NewsElection watchtop stories

GJA holds national and regional elections today

June 30, 2025
Breaking NewsBusinesstop stories

PURC announces 2.45% increase in Electricity tariffs from July 1

June 26, 2025
Breaking NewsBusinesstop stories

Iran cannot unilaterally shut Strait of Hormuz – NPA boss

June 23, 2025
Breaking NewsBusinesstop stories

Israel-Iran war: Fuel prices likely to rise in July – COPEC

June 23, 2025

About Us

Public Agenda is fou­nded and owned by Pu­blic Agenda Communic­ations.

Public Agenda was founded as a public interest Me­dia entity. Its Visi­on is to contribute to building a well-i­nformed society where accurate informati­on dissemination is the cornerstone of a democratic, just and equitable society.

Its mission is to inform, guide and bui­ld responsible citiz­enship and accountab­le decision making and strive for excell­ence in the media in­dustry. Public Agenda Communications is managed by a Board of Directors.

Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?