In a recent development, ACP Benjamin Kwasi Agordzo, a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, has highlighted the urgent need for a complete overhaul in the recruitment and operations of the Ghana Police Service and other security institutions. This call for reform comes in response to a systemic challenge that has been brought to the forefront through legal action initiated by Prof. Kwesi Aning and the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education.
The lawsuit filed by Prof. Kwesi Aning and IMANI seeks to enforce certain articles in the Constitution that restrict the President from making appointments to key public offices, including the Inspector General of Police and the Director General of the Prisons Service, as well as determining their tenure.
While acknowledging the significance of the legal action, ACP (Rtd) Agordzo emphasizes that the remedies being pursued may not fully address the underlying issues confronting these institutions. He advocates for a more comprehensive approach that encompasses a constitutional interpretation of key aspects of the career progression of security personnel, coupled with legal reforms or constitutional amendments pertaining to their appointment, removal processes, and tenure of office based on clearly defined criteria.
According to ACP (Rtd) Agordzo, seeking solely an interpretation on termination procedures and appointments through the courts may not suffice in addressing the root causes of the challenges faced by the security institutions. He underscores the importance of establishing clear legal grounds for the appointment and dismissal of key personnel within these institutions, as currently, the constitution is silent on the procedure for dismissing the Inspector General of Police.
Furthermore, he raises critical questions about the basis for certain demands made in the lawsuit, highlighting the necessity for aligning any proposed changes with existing legal frameworks. ACP (Rtd) Agordzo stresses that any reforms must be firmly rooted in law and not introduced arbitrarily.
In conclusion, ACP (Rtd) Agordzo's insights shed light on the complexities involved in addressing the systemic challenges faced by Ghana's security institutions. His advocacy for a holistic approach to reform, encompassing constitutional interpretation and legal amendments, underscores the need for a thoughtful and thorough process to effect meaningful change. As Ghana grapples with these crucial issues, it is imperative to consider the multifaceted nature of security sector reform and pursue solutions that are both legally sound and institutionally transformative.
-source Onuaonline | curated by Tetteh Belinda | Ghana Crimes
