Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Dr. Benjamin Agordzo, has alleged that many police officers voted against the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the December 7, 2024, elections due to dissatisfaction with the leadership of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
Speaking in an interview with TV3 on December 11, 2024, Dr. Agordzo attributed the police officers’ discontent to what he described as Dr. Dampare’s biased management style, including the arbitrary transfer of officers and favoritism in promotions, which he claimed tarnished the image of the NPP among law enforcement personnel.
“This is the worst IGP we’ve ever had. Promotions are happening without the oversight of a promotion board, and officers are being transferred without proper procedure,” Dr. Agordzo stated. “He’s so vindictive that associating with someone he disapproves of can result in your transfer. Even those working around his deputy are being reassigned.”
He went further to highlight the dissatisfaction within the police service, claiming that over 80% of officers opposed the NPP at the polls due to their frustration with Dr. Dampare’s leadership. “The police are disillusioned, depressed, and fed up. There are numerous lawsuits against the IGP right now over these issues,” he added.
Dr. Agordzo also criticized what he perceived as unfair promotions, citing instances of rapid advancements for certain individuals while others were overlooked. He described a scenario where a junior officer had been promoted multiple ranks within a short period, creating tensions and resentment among senior officers who now must salute their juniors.
“For example, a young officer who was an ASP when Dampare took office is now a Chief Superintendent after just a few years, while others have been sidelined. This favoritism undermines discipline and respect within the service,” he remarked.
The retired officer concluded by expressing concern over the growing dissatisfaction and the unprecedented trend of officers taking legal action against the IGP over promotion disputes.
