President John Dramani Mahama has counsel against political meddling and favoritism within the Ghana Police Service, emphasizing that such practices undermine the morale of officers and erode public confidence in the institution.
Speaking at the Presidential Palace during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Police Council on Tuesday, President Mahama highlighted the urgent need for the Police Service to undergo a fundamental reset to restore trust among Ghanaians.
The Police Council, chaired by Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, was urged by the President to carry out its duties with impartiality and independence, free from political influence.
The President acknowledged the widespread feelings of neglect and demoralization among both junior and senior police officers, as well as the public’s perception of being unprotected and unheard.
“For too long, issues of politicisation, arbitrary promotions, disregard for seniority, unfair postings, and breaches of professional conduct have cast shadows over the service’s credibility,” President Mahama remarked.
“Do not allow power to overshadow fairness. Let professionalism, not political pressure, guide your decisions,” he added.
President Mahama reminded the Council that their responsibilities are far from ceremonial, underscoring the significant moral and legal obligations they bear in shaping the conduct, welfare, and effectiveness of the Police Service.
“You are now custodians of one of the most serious mandates in our Republic. This is not a task to be taken lightly,” he emphasized.
He assured the Council of the government’s full support in its mission to enhance discipline, enforce merit-based promotions, and restore respect for rank and experience within the service.
Again, President Mahama called on the Police Council and leadership to enhance intelligence operations and ensure thorough investigations into unresolved violent incidents, particularly in conflict-prone regions.
He stated “This Council must embody the will of the Ghanaian people.
“Let your work send a signal to every corner of the country that fairness still matters, that justice still lives, and that Ghana is still worth believing in.”
President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to listen and respond to the Council’s concerns and pledged unwavering support for lawful measures aimed at maintaining order.
“This swearing-in is more than a formality. It is a new beginning, a promise to build a police service that serves the people, not itself,” he stressed.
Source : www.kumasimail.com/ Kwadwo Owusu
