The Minister-Designate for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka has clarified that the authority to retain or remove heads of Ghana’s security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP), rests solely with President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, January 24, Muntaka stressed that his role as Interior Minister would be limited to offering recommendations, with the President holding the final decision-making power.
“I can assure you that there will be an assessment of all team members and President John Dramani Mahama has a vision and objective for which Ghanaians have voted for him and all that will be reviewed in line. And those who will be harmful in assisting him in the national interest will be dealt with but I will not be able to deal with specific individuals and determine who stays or goes. I do not have that power,” he said.
This clarification came in response to a question from Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Committee’s Ranking Member, who inquired about Muntaka’s position on whether Dr. George Akuffo Dampare would continue as IGP under the new administration.
The question of Dr. Dampare’s future as IGP remains a divisive issue. While some critics argue that his leadership does not align with the administration’s security priorities, others praise his efforts in maintaining law and order during challenging times.
