Vice President Mahamadu Bawumia has described the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, as visionary.
According to him, the systematic re-orientation and reform of the Ghana Police Service since IGP Dampare took office, “have brought tangible results; results that continue to give me pride as Chairman of the Police Council.
“I am proud to stand side by side with such a visionary leader who continues to set the pace and is on course to make the Ghana Police Service the reference point for excellence in Africa and beyond. Dr. Dampare, the reformer, Ayekoo to you and your team,” Dr. Bawumia said.
The Vice President was addressing the 53rd Cadet Officers’ Graduation Parade held at the Police Academy in Tesano, Accra, on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 where he praised the professionalism and commitment of the Ghana Police Service.
The event celebrated the graduation of 430 Cadet Officers, including 125 females and 395 males, who have now been promoted to Assistant Superintendents of Police, following six months of rigorous training.
During his speech, Dr. Bawumia spoke about the newly opened “Stop Shop” initiative, blending both physical and digital retail outlets, aimed at facilitating the procurement of essential police items.
“They call me Dr. Digital,” he noted with a smile, emphasising that the shop will enhance the ease with which officers access critical equipment, from operational gear to ceremonial attire.
The initiative, he said, aligns with international best practices and supplements government provisions for the police.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the progress in police professionalism, contrasting today’s service with past years, when he admitted that the police were often the target of public criticism.
“Gone are the days when the police were the butt of everyone’s jokes,” he said, acknowledging recent examples of restraint shown by officers during protests, as evidence of the force’s commitment to discipline and order.
He expressed pride in the new Police Service’s dedication to fair treatment of citizens, emphasising that it is a “service for the people.”
As the nation prepares for the 2024 general elections, Dr. Bawumia stressed the importance of impartial and firm election policing, underscoring the police’s role in upholding democracy.
He commended their conduct during voter registration exercises and urged them to maintain high standards as they work to ensure a peaceful and credible election.
“The Ghana Police Service has done it before, and we are counting on you to do it again,” he said.
The police force has expanded its footprint with new police stations and enhanced logistics. Under the Akufo-Addo administration, the government has provided 720 vehicles, over 5,150 motorbikes, new housing units, and modern police stations across the nation. Additionally, eight new police regions have been established, bringing the total to 25.
Vice President Bawumia highlighted the recent Police Emergency Medical Intervention Fund, which has already provided life-saving care to over 20 officers.
Dr. Bawumia encouraged the new officers to be “professional, proactive, law-abiding, and accountable” as they serve, aiming to further enhance the safety and security of the nation.
The event also honoured several outstanding Cadets.
Among the awardees were; Mabel Tachieh-Wandiah for Best Field Mission and Analysis, Leonard Asare for Best Marksmanship, Haruna Dauda for Excellence in Criminal Investigation and Amofa Bright Justice for Exemplary Leadership.
