Ghana’s Youngest IGP Dampare Reflects on 35-Year Police Career
Former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has publicly addressed his recent removal from office with grace and gratitude. In a heartfelt statement released on March 14, 2025, Dr. Dampare expressed profound appreciation to the people of Ghana, fellow officers, and leaders who supported his tenure as the nation’s top police officer.
From General Constable to IGP: A Remarkable Journey
Dr. Dampare’s career represents one of the most inspiring trajectories in Ghana’s security sector. Rising from the rank of General Constable to become the youngest Inspector-General of Police in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, his 35-year journey through nearly all departments of the Ghana Police Service showcases remarkable dedication and versatility.
“My 35-year journey in the Ghana Police Service has been truly fulfilling,” Dr. Dampare noted in his statement, highlighting his experience including two separate appointments as Director-General of Welfare and Administration before reaching the pinnacle position.
Gratitude to Leadership Across Political Divides
In his statement, Dr. Dampare specifically thanked former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for appointing him as IGP, while also acknowledging his brief but “cordial working relationship” with current President John Dramani Mahama.
This demonstration of bipartisan respect aligns with research showing that effective security leadership transcends political divisions, particularly in democratic systems where peaceful transitions are essential.
Support from Multiple Stakeholders Acknowledged
The former IGP extended gratitude to:
- Religious and traditional leaders for their prayers and guidance
- Heads of sister security agencies for collaborative efforts
- Civil society organizations for their support and oversight
- The international community and diplomatic missions for partnership
These acknowledgments reflect the multi-stakeholder approach to security governance that has become increasingly important in modern policing frameworks.
Still Energetic at 55: Ready to Serve Again
Perhaps most notably, Dr. Dampare made it clear that his commitment to Ghana remains unwavering despite his removal. At nearly 55 years old, he emphasized that he “remains ready to serve the nation with discipline, honor, and integrity” and still possesses the energy and dedication to contribute to Ghana’s security and development.
Transition to New Leadership
Dr. Dampare’s statement came just one day after the government officially announced his replacement through the Minister for Government Communications. His successor, COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, was sworn into office on March 14, 2025, by President John Dramani Mahama at a ceremony at the Jubilee House.
The appointment of COP Yohuno was made by Articles 91 and 202 of the 1992 Constitution, following proper consultation with the Council of State as required by Ghana’s constitutional provisions on security appointments.
What Next for Ghana’s Police Service?
As Ghana transitions to new police leadership, security experts are watching closely to see what elements of Dampare’s reform agenda might continue under the new administration. His tenure was marked by several modernization initiatives and community policing approaches that garnered significant public support.
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