Dr Bawumia lauds IGP’s visionary leadership reshaping Police

Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia lauded Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for the positive changes introduced in the Ghana Police Service, recognizing his leadership and vision in reshaping the force.
Addressing cadet officers during the graduation ceremony at the Police Training Academy in Tesano, Accra, Dr. Bawumia expressed his pride in the IGP’s achievements and leadership as he oversees the Police Council.

“I am proud to stand side by side with such a visionary leader who, together with his team, is on course to make the Ghana Police Service a reference point for excellence in Africa and beyond,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
He congratulated the IGP, adding, “Ayekooo to you and your team.”

Professionalism and discipline in face of provocation
Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the Ghana Police Service’s professionalism, particularly in handling recent confrontations with demonstrators, which he said demonstrated the force’s commitment to discipline and professionalism.
He noted that the era of the police being a target of public ridicule is behind them, thanks to the reformative strides taken under Dr. Dampare’s leadership.

Preparing for peaceful elections in December
As the Reviewing Officer of the ceremony, Dr. Bawumia addressed the pressing matter of the upcoming December 7 elections, urging the public and political actors to support the police in maintaining order.
He expressed confidence in the force’s ability to ensure peaceful, free, and fair elections, emphasizing the importance of the police’s neutrality and impartiality in election security.“The neutral, fair, and firm election policing that we have witnessed before should be the reason for optimism,” Dr. Bawumia stated, urging the new officers to carry out their duties with “professionalism, proactivity, lawfulness, accountability, firmness, fairness, and fearlessness.”

Encouragement to the new cadet officers

During the event, 430 Cadet Officers of the 53rd Cadet Course graduated and were commissioned as Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) in the Senior Police Corps.
The Vice-President praised the dedication displayed in their training, noting that their discipline and commitment are critical to the nation’s security, especially as Ghana prepares for the polls.

“Let me congratulate the officers on parade for such an impressive display of drill-craft,” he remarked.
“This certainly demonstrates the hard work, discipline, and determination put in by both the officers and their trainers over the past six months.”

Setting the tone for peaceful elections
Reflecting on the recent voter registration and exhibition exercises, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the police’s professionalism, calling it a strong foundation for the upcoming elections.
“Ghana Police Service, you have done it before, and we are counting on you to do it again,” he said, urging the force to set a tone for incident-free elections through high professional standards.

Inspiration for continued excellence
The Vice President expressed confidence in Ghana’s history of peaceful elections, recalling the nation’s success in maintaining stability since 1992.
“We will still maintain a peaceful election this year as well since the nation has become good at it,” he stated, reinforcing the role of the police in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic process.

Dr. Bawumia concluded his address with high hopes for the police, praising the Police Management Board, the Commandant, and staff of the Police Academy for their contributions.
He expressed optimism that the new officers’ dedication and professionalism would help ensure national peace during the election season.

Special awards
Special awards were given to several officers for their commitment, discipline, and support throughout the six-month training programme at the Academy.
ASP Mr. Issah Achirburi was honoured as the overall best cadet officer.
Nine other officers received special recognition
ASP Panporror Kunsoryiriey was named the best in basic fitness, ASP Lenord Asare earned the title of best marksman, and ASP Dorcas Brenyah received the commandant’s special award.
ASP Prince Kaar Dammer was recognized as the best in drill, while ASP Mabel Tachieh Wadieh excelled in field mission planning and analysis.

ASP Haruna Dauda was honored as the best in criminal investigation, and ASP Anamfo Bright Justice was acknowledged for demonstrating exemplary leadership.
The smartly dressed police officers showcased impressive drills at the parade, which attracted a gathering of senior police officials, including Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, Inspector General of Police, as well as retired officers, family, friends, and traditional leaders.
Also in attendance were Mrs. Theodora Woode, a former Chief Justice, Mr. Henry Quartey, Minister for the Interior, and Mr. Titus Glover, Greater Accra Regional Minister.