Report on Committee Investigation into Alleged Leaked Audio Plot to Remove IGP
Introduction
In response to growing concerns and demands from the Minority caucus in Parliament, Speaker
of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin established a special seven-member committee
to investigate the alleged leaked audio recording. This recording contains discussions about a
plan to remove the current Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. The
purpose of this report is to provide an overview of the committee's formation, objectives, and key
statements made during its proceedings.
Background
The background leading to the formation of this committee centers around an audio recording
that surfaced, suggesting discussions about the removal of the IGP. The authenticity and
credibility of this recording became a matter of national interest and security concern.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Ghanaian Parliament took swift action by
establishing a special committee to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Key Findings:
1. Dissatisfaction with IGP's Leadership: The individuals in the recording express
dissatisfaction with Dr. Dampare's leadership style, suggesting that he may not be
inclined to support the NPP's political objectives.
2. Association with Opposition Party: There are allegations that Dr. Dampare may have
connections or affiliations with the opposition NDC, which raises suspicions among those
involved in the conversation.
3. Concerns Over the "Breaking the 8" Agenda: The individuals emphasize the
importance of achieving the NPP's "Breaking the 8" agenda for the 2024 elections and
believe that Dr. Dampare's leadership may not align with this goal.
4. Criticism of Assin North Bye-Election: There are claims that the selection of security
personnel for the Assin North by-election did not favor NPP interests, and there is a
suggestion that party members will take steps to address this issue.
Committee Formation
Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin appointed a seven-member committee with the
mandate to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the alleged leaked audio. The
committee's primary objective is to ascertain the authenticity of the recording, identify
individuals involved in the discussions, and assess the implications of the plot on national
security and political stability.
Statements from Key Figures
Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu
Former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu emphasized the significance of the investigation,
stressing that the alleged attempt to remove the IGP and discussions concerning the 2024
elections should be a matter of concern for Parliament. He highlighted that the security of the
country was at stake, and it was crucial to determine the authenticity of the leaked tape.
Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah
Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah disclosed that the audio recording was
made during a meeting between veteran politician Bugri Naabu and senior police officers. The
discussion revolved around the outcome of the Assin North by-election and concerns about the
IGP's involvement. The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, James
Gyakye Quayson, had won that election.
Testimony of COP George Alex Mensah
During his testimony before the committee on August 31, 2023, Commissioner of Police (COP)
George Alex Mensah admitted to discussing the need for a "collusive syndicate" in elections but
denied using the term "Mafia work." He argued that some tactics were employed in elections to
ensure peaceful voting and prevent disruptions, especially at strongholds.
COP Mensah expressed dissatisfaction with the current IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare,
alleging that the Police Service was not being managed effectively. He claimed that a majority of
police officers were unhappy with the situation.
COP Mensah also revealed that he had been lobbying since 2017 to become IGP and believed
that a change in leadership was necessary.
Testimony from the IGP.
The IGP however denied all allegations against him and pleaded with those accusing him to
come clear and repent from their ways. He however denied allegations that there was a special
force named Dampare special force within the Ghana police service who reported to only him
and those special forces do not follow laid down procedures within the police service and are
considered untouchable. He also explained he had no involvement in the secret recording since
he had no knowledge about such a meeting until the secret recording was leaked, He also denied
accusations that he was behind the recording of the secret tape by sending some people to the
meeting to record the whole process.
Bugri Naabu's Reason for Secret Recording
Bugri Naabu, explaining the reason for secretly recording the meeting, stated that he wanted to
ensure that accurate information was conveyed to the President. He expressed concern that
misinformation could harm his relationship with the President and the party. Therefore, he
decided to record the discussion to ensure that he presented accurate information to the
President.
Conclusion
The special seven-member committee's investigation into the alleged leaked audio plot to
remove IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare continues to progress. Its findings will provide clarity
on the authenticity of the recording and the implications of the discussions therein. This
investigation remains essential for maintaining transparency, accountability, and national
security.