Senior Lawyer Sam Okudzeto Defends IGP Dr. Dampare Amid Rising Dissent
Amid growing dissent within the police force, senior lawyer and former Council of State member Sam Okudzeto has come out in strong support of Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, dismissing calls for his removal. Okudzeto emphasized that Dampare is a levelheaded and professional leader dedicated to doing what is right. In an interview on Accra-based 3FM’s AGENDA, he stated:
“I don’t even understand what they are driving at. I have watched this country since independence, and if there has been any person who is levelheaded and strict about doing the right thing, it is the current IGP, Dr. Dampare.”
Okudzeto’s comments come at a time when internal grievances within the police service are coming to light. Some officers have accused Dr. Dampare of unfairly denying promotions, a claim that was recently dismissed by a Kumasi High Court case involving 40 officers. There have also been allegations that the IGP is limiting regional and district commanders from interacting with the media on matters within their jurisdictions, sparking further calls for his removal.
Addressing these concerns, Okudzeto cautioned against disruptive leadership changes, stating:
“I think that people just assume that when there is a change of government, there must also be a change of everything. We cannot run a country that way—it makes no sense.”
Recent polls conducted on Pulse Ghana’s social media channels have provided insight into public opinion on the IGP’s future. Across various platforms, the majority of respondents oppose the idea of sacking Dr. Dampare, with a significant percentage showing support for him to remain in his role.
These results highlight the divided nature of the debate surrounding Dr. Dampare’s tenure as IGP. While a majority of respondents prefer to see him continue in his position, the final decision ultimately lies with President John Dramani Mahama, whose ongoing restructuring of public institutions could influence the IGP’s fate.
Supporters of Dr. Dampare commend him for his efforts in maintaining discipline, professionalism, and integrity within the Ghana Police Service.
