The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, has clarified that the authority to retain or dismiss heads of security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare rests solely with President John Mahama.

Speaking during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, January 24, Mr Muntaka emphasised his role as limited to providing recommendations.

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“I can assure you that there will be an assessment of all team members and President John Dramani Mahama has a vision and objective for which Ghanaians have voted for him and all that will be reviewed in line.

“And those who will be harmful in assisting him in the national interest will be dealt with but I will not be able to deal with specific individuals and determine who stays or goes. I do not have that power. I can only make recommendations to the President,” he said.

The clarification came in response to questions about the potential removal of the current IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.

Calls for Dr Dampare’s removal have sparked debate, with critics citing misalignment with the administration’s priorities and others commending his leadership during challenging times.

Mr Muntaka assured the committee that the President would review the performance of all security heads to align with his vision for national security, adding that those found detrimental to the national interest would be addressed.