Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the Member of Parliament for Asawase and Minister-designate for the Interior, has stated that he does not have the power to determine the future of the current Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
Speaking during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointment Committee on Friday, January 24, 2025, Muntaka emphasized that the authority to remove or retain the IGP rests solely with the President, John Dramani Mahama.
“I cannot tell who should be maintained or who is to be removed,” he said. “As a minister, I can only recommend but not determine who stays or goes.”
Muntaka assured the committee and the public that any decisions he makes as Minister for the Interior would prioritize the nation’s best interests. “I, Muntaka, will act in the best national interest,” he affirmed.
Critics Slam Celebration Shooting Incident
Muntaka also addressed criticisms surrounding a viral video that showed police officers firing celebratory shots into the air in jubilation over his nomination.
The footage, which has sparked public outrage, raised questions about firearm accountability within the Ghana Police Service. Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, a former spokesperson for the Akufo-Addo administration, was among the critics who condemned the act.
In a post on his X account, Boakye-Danquah questioned the safety risks posed by the reckless behavior, writing, “What if this shooting had missed its chance and shot at the Minister-designate? Would we have said the policeman has killed his boss?”
He added, “Are we, the general people in Ghana, at risk of police personnel who take decisions on their own with the use of AK47s in the public domain?”
Boakye-Danquah further criticized the Ghana Police Service for its silence on the matter and demanded immediate accountability. He recommended that Muntaka withdraw the officer involved from his security detail and initiate an investigation to enforce disciplinary measures.
“This sends the wrong message to the public,” he noted. “The Ghana Police Service must take swift action to prevent such reckless incidents from recurring.”
‘Reckless Firing Was Wrong’: Muntaka Speaks Out
Responding to the incident, Muntaka told the committee that he opposed the actions of the police officers involved. “I was vehemently against that shooting in the house,” he stated.
He added, “I have also made that officer apologize because I don’t think that was right.”
Muntaka’s stance highlights his commitment to maintaining discipline and ensuring that law enforcement officers uphold professionalism.
The Road Ahead
As Interior Minister-designate, Muntaka will oversee critical agencies such as the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Narcotics Control Commission. His performance will be closely watched, particularly in addressing pressing issues like firearm accountability and fostering public trust in the nation’s security agencies.
