The Bureau of Public Safety has emphasised the need for strong, transformative leadership in Ghana’s public service, following the removal of Dr George Akuffo Dampare as Inspector General of Police (IGP).

Dr Nana Yaw Akwada, Executive Director and Chief of Party of the Bureau in a statement on Saturday March 15, highlighted the challenges of leadership within Ghana’s complex institutional framework.

Dr Akwada acknowledged the appointment of COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno as Dampare’s successor, describing him as a well-regarded leader with broad support.

However, he cautioned that popularity alone is insufficient for effective leadership.

“In public service—especially in Ghana—leadership requires more than just being well-liked,” Dr. Akwada stated.

He further noted the difficulties of navigating Ghana’s cultural and institutional dynamics while maintaining accountability in a democratic framework.

Dr Akwada pointed to past leaders, such as Dr. Stephen Addei at GIMPA, Dr. Charles Wereko-Brobby at the Volta River Authority, and Dr. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, as examples of transformative figures whose efforts were stifled by a system resistant to change.

Reflecting on Dampare’s tenure, Dr. Akwada urged stakeholders to ensure that the public confidence built under his leadership is not eroded.

He emphasised the importance of fostering accountability and transformative leadership to strengthen Ghana’s public institutions.