Tight Race For Next GIS Boss

As the tenure of the current Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kwame Asuah Takyi, draws to a close, the corridors of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) are abuzz with intense lobbying and maneuvering among top officers vying to succeed him.
The impending leadership transition has sparked discussions across the ranks of the service, with multiple candidates being tipped as potential successors.
Each of them brings unique experience, expertise, and challenges, setting the stage for a highly contested appointment.

Laud Kwasi Ofori Affrifah
Currently serving as the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Command Post and Operations, Laud Kwasi Ofori Affrifah stands out as one of the most experienced candidates in operational matters.
Having been appointed by the previous administration, he enjoys a reputation for efficiency and dedication.
However, his looming retirement in 11 months could be a critical factor influencing his chances.
Some believe that appointing someone so close to retirement may not be a strategic decision for the long-term stability of the GIS leadership.

Evelyn Lotsu
A highly capable officer, Evelyn Lotsu serves as the Head of Finance at the Headquarters, holding the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Immigration.
Her supporters argue that her diligence and work ethic make her a strong contender.
However, her lack of experience in operational and regional command roles may work against her.
Detractors cite that her financial expertise, while invaluable, does not necessarily translate into leading a predominantly operational institution.
Nonetheless, history shows that the outgoing Comptroller-General himself was recruited into the legal department and successfully rose through the ranks, proving that an unconventional career trajectory does not preclude success.
She has one half years more to retire from the service.

Prudence Aku Sosu
Prudence Aku Sosu, another Deputy Commissioner of Immigration, currently heads Permit Processing at the Headquarters.
With a solid background as a Regional Commander in multiple regions, she is seen as a balanced candidate with both administrative and field experience.
Her tenure in regional leadership roles positions her as a strong competitor in the race for the top job.

Faisal Disu
Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Faisal Disu, the current Regional Commander for the Eastern Region, has had a distinguished career in the service, having served in multiple regional command positions and previously led the Human Resources Department.
His extensive leadership experience across various regions makes him a formidable candidate.
His ability to manage personnel and oversee field operations effectively bolsters his credibility in the race.

Samuel Basintale Amadu
Once a rising star within the GIS, Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Samuel Basintale Amadu’s, career trajectory took an unexpected turn after reportedly falling out with the outgoing Comptroller-General.
Currently at the Headquarters without an assigned role, Amadu’s supporters argue that he has been sidelined due to internal politics rather than professional incompetence.
His previous tenure as the Regional Commander for the Bono Region showcased his leadership capabilities.
If political considerations do not overshadow merit, he could emerge as a dark horse in the race.

Francis Palmdeti
Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Francis Palmdeti, currently the Regional Commander for the Ahafo Region, is best remembered for his tenure as the GIS Spokesperson.
During his time as the service’s voice and face, he demonstrated exceptional communication skills and effectively represented the institution.
His experience in regional command, combined with his media expertise, presents him as a unique candidate who could bring a fresh leadership approach to the service.

Edward Kofi Owusu
A seasoned officer currently serving as the Commander of Twifo Praso District in the Central Region, Assistant Commissioner of Immigration (ACI) Edward Kofi Owusu has endured what many describe as a career setback.
Once a Regional Commander in multiple regions, he was demoted to a district-level role due to reported victimization under the outgoing Comptroller-General.
His case has generated sympathy among some officers, who view his demotion as politically motivated rather than a reflection of his competence.
If his career trajectory is reassessed objectively, he could be a strong contender.

The intense lobbying and power play
As the selection process intensifies, various interest groups within and outside the GIS are lobbying for their preferred candidates. Political influence, professional track records, and institutional dynamics are all expected to play a role in the final decision.
The Ministry of the Interior, the Presidency, and senior officials within the service will have to weigh multiple factors, including experience, loyalty, and the ability to drive reforms.
There is also a broader debate within the GIS regarding the qualities needed in the next Comptroller-General.
Some argue that a candidate with strong operational experience is essential to enhance border security and combat illegal migration effectively.
Others believe that administrative expertise, financial acumen, or a fresh leadership style could be the game-changer in modernizing the service.

The road ahead
The appointment of the next Comptroller-General of Immigration is poised to be a defining moment for the GIS.
Information indicates that the powers are focusing on the DCOI rank
The service faces evolving challenges, including increasing cross-border crime, human trafficking, and the need for enhanced technological integration in migration management.
The chosen leader must be capable of addressing these issues while also fostering a cohesive and motivated workforce.
As the lobbying and deliberations continue, all eyes are on the appointing authorities to see who will be entrusted with leading Ghana’s Immigration Service into its next chapter.
Whether it will be a seasoned operational commander, an administrative expert, or a media-savvy strategist, one thing is certain—the choice will significantly shape the future of the institution.
By ELVIS DARKO, Accra