Cops' political colours 'not my concern' – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has stated that he is not in any way interested in knowing the political affiliation of serving officers of the police or any of the security agencies.

Addressing graduates and attendees of the 49th cadet officers graduation parade at the Police Academy, Police Depot, Tesano, President Akufo-Addo said the "political affiliation of serving officers should manifest themselves only in the polling booth on election day" and not in their line of duty.

"Once they dawn the uniform, the population and I expect them to carry out their duties impartially without any political colouration".

"That is the basis on which I’ve proceeded since I assumed office on 7th January 2017", the President said, adding: "I do not know the political leanings of any of the commanding officers of the various security agencies, including the police service or have I sort to know; for that is not my concern. My concern is their ability to deliver, that is the best way we can build a credible security and police system".

Recent Killings and Discipline in Police Service

President Akufo-Addo charged the acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr James Oppong-Boanuh, and the entire Service to make it a point to maintain discipline in the Police Service.

The President also condemned the recent killings of and attacks on police officers.

He emphasised that "in so far as we are a country governed by the rule of law, such criminal acts will not go unpunished".

"Personnel of the police service should not be seen as enemies but rather partners in the fight against crime", the President noted.

Missing Takoradi Girls

On the issue of the missing Takoradi girls, the President said the families of the girls and, indeed, the entire Ghanaian population awaits eagerly the results of the ongoing investigations by the Police.

He urged the Police Service to respond soon to the expectations of the population.

"Ghanaians, especially the families of the three missing Takoradi girls and the recently discovered fourth person are waiting anxiously for news of their whereabouts from the police service and I fervently hope the police service will respond soon," the President said.

The Graduates

In all, the 49th cadet officers graduation parade saw 143 cadet officers graduating.

For the first time, a female cadet officer, Theodora Ntirwaa, graduated as the overall best cadet officer.