I’m not bothered about the political affiliation of serving officers – Akufo-Addo

The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has stated strongly that he is not, in any way, interested in knowing the political affiliation of serving officers of the Police or any of the other security agencies.

Addressing graduants 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 our their duties impartially without any political coloration. President Akufo Addo pointed out saying “that is the basis on which I have proceed since I assumed office on 7th January 2017. I do not know the political leanings of any of the commanding officers of the various security agencies including the police service nor 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”.

Killings and Discipline in Police Service

President Akufo-Addo charged the acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), James Oppong-Boanuh, and the entire Service to make it a point to maintain discipline in the Police Service. The President also condemned recent killings of and attacks on police officers. He emphasized 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 populist.

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

The Graduants

In all, the 49th Cadet Officers graduation parade saw one hundred and forty-three (143) Cadet Officers graduating. For the first time, a female Cadet Officer, Theodora Ntirwaa, graduated as the overall best Cadet Officer.