Nana Ohene Ntow, a former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and a prominent member of Alan Kyerematen’s Movement for Change party, has lauded Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for his exceptional leadership during Ghana’s December 7 elections. Speaking in an interview on TV3, Ntow highlighted how Dampare's meticulous planning and decisive leadership played a pivotal role in maintaining stability during a period of heightened political tension.
According to Ntow, the 2024 elections presented unique challenges, with fears of violence looming over the nation due to past incidents of unrest during electoral seasons. The security concerns were exacerbated by political polarization and the highly charged environment leading up to the elections. Yet, under Dampare’s guidance, these potential flashpoints were effectively managed, and Ghana was able to navigate a peaceful electoral process.
“Ghanaians must stand up for Dampare. His security arrangements and strategic planning saved this country,” Ntow stated. He credited the IGP for ensuring transparency and professionalism in the deployment of security personnel during the elections.
Ntow also shared insights into some of the challenges Dampare faced, particularly with rogue elements within the military. "We saw how some recalcitrant soldiers behaved, but Dampare insisted that the only time the military would be officially deployed would be under his instruction, and he stayed committed to his promise. God bless him for the work he did,” he added.
The role of the police and other security agencies in the elections was critical, given Ghana's history of politically motivated violence. Dampare’s leadership proved instrumental in preventing the situation from escalating. His insistence on centralized control over the deployment of security forces helped to eliminate the risk of unauthorized actions by rogue elements.
The IGP’s strategy included ensuring that the military, police, and other security forces acted in coordination rather than in silos. This approach reassured the public that there would be no bias or underhanded tactics used to manipulate the outcome of the elections. His actions inspired confidence in the security system and reinforced the idea that law enforcement was committed to upholding democratic principles.
The December 7 elections were fraught with tension, and many political observers feared they could spiral into chaos. However, Dampare’s proactive measures, such as deploying officers strategically in potential hotspots, holding regular briefings to address concerns, and maintaining open communication with political stakeholders, prevented such scenarios.
In addition to managing internal security, Dampare’s leadership extended to curbing misinformation, which has often fueled electoral violence in the past. The police worked closely with media houses and social media platforms to counter false information and ensure that accurate updates were disseminated to the public. This effort helped to diffuse rumors that could have incited violence.
Ntow’s comments come as a breath of fresh air in a political climate often marked by partisan criticism of public officials. He emphasized that Dampare’s achievements should be recognized and celebrated by all Ghanaians, irrespective of their political affiliations.
Reflecting on the larger implications of Dampare’s leadership, Ntow stated, “The December 7 elections taught us that with the right leadership, Ghana can rise above its challenges. Dampare has set a benchmark for how security should be managed in this country.”
The successful management of the elections under Dampare’s leadership is a testament to the importance of professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to national interest in public service. His ability to navigate such a challenging period has earned him widespread admiration from both political figures and ordinary Ghanaians.
As Ghana reflects on its democratic journey, the peaceful conduct of the December 7 elections will likely be remembered as a milestone. This achievement underscores the critical role of strong leadership in safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring that the will of the people prevails.
The praise for Dampare goes beyond political circles. Civil society organizations and international observers have also commended his efforts. Many believe that his leadership style and the success of the elections could serve as a model for other African countries grappling with similar challenges.
In an era where security agencies in many parts of the world are often accused of partisanship, Dampare’s commitment to neutrality and professionalism has set him apart. His actions during the December 7 elections have not only enhanced his reputation but have also strengthened public trust in Ghana’s security institutions.
The peaceful outcome of the elections is a reminder that Ghana’s democracy, while not without its challenges, remains resilient. It also highlights the power of strong, principled leadership in ensuring that democracy thrives.
Dampare’s legacy will undoubtedly be defined by his role in steering Ghana through one of its most challenging electoral periods. As the nation moves forward, the lessons learned from his leadership will continue to resonate, offering hope and inspiration for a brighter, more peaceful future.
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