The government has announced plans to work on establishing an Independent Police Complaints Commission within the next six months, aimed at promoting accountability and restoring public trust in the Ghana Police Service.

The Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, disclosed this at the maiden Government Accountability Series held at the presidency on Monday, July 13.

He said the new commission will be tasked with investigating complaints against police officers, sanctioning misconduct, and ensuring the highest standards of professionalism within the service.

“In the next six months, we will start work on the Independent Police Complaints Commission, which will be responsible for promoting public confidence, investigating serious incidents, and enforcing certain standards. It will operate as an independent body to give our citizens the hope and belief that if a police officer misbehaves, he or she will be brought to book,” Mr Muntaka stated.

The Minister acknowledged the commitment of many police officers but cautioned that professionalism must always guide their conduct.
“They must not abuse our citizens in the name of protection,” he warned.

According to Mr Muntaka, the creation of the Commission forms part of the government’s broader agenda to enhance transparency within public institutions and ensure that law enforcement operates without fear or favour.

Many have advocated for an independent commission to investigate complaints about police misconduct, insisting that the current system is not reliable since the Police have more control over it.

The Government Accountability Series serves as a platform to update citizens on the performance and reforms of key state agencies.