December polls: We won’t tolerate removal of IGP - NDC warns

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a stern warning against any potential attempts to remove Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

Rumours have circulated that the IGP was instructed to take an enforced leave of absence and hand over control of his office to his deputy, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who was allegedly involved in the incident regarding the leaked tapes in 2023.

The Ghana Police Service has denied these reports, reaffirming the IGP's commitment to managing the force according to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's directives.

Despite these assurances, the NDC remains skeptical.

The party questions the police service's explanation and expresses concern about a possible scheme to replace the IGP as part of a larger plot to rig the general election scheduled for December.

In an interview with Channel One News, Mustapha Gbande, the NDC's deputy secretary, accused President Akufo-Addo of recklessness and prioritizing his interests over those of the nation.

Mr. Gbande emphasized that the NDC will not tolerate any attempts to undermine the country's democratic processes.

"We can guarantee President Akufo-Addo that the National Democratic Congress will use all of its power and might to repudiate any attempt to rig the 2024 election. Nothing will be able to override the people's will," Mr. Gbande stated.

He continued, "If this whole hullabaloo about trying to remove the IGP is about the election, President Akufo-Addo should reconsider and go home as a former president. At least in the minds of Ghanaians, he has made some appointments in the interest of the nation."

Mr. Gbande praised the IGP's tenure, noting, "Since assuming office, you can see significant reforms in the Ghana Police Service. There is a noticeable level of discipline, even in the appearance of police personnel, which enhances the image of our country—not just the NPP or President Akufo-Addo. It’s about the country."

He concluded, "We have indulged President Akufo-Addo to the point where he has become an irresponsible president. It’s high time we tell him directly that it’s not always about him."