Ashanti Region Police Commander removed over Council of State election violence

Ashanti Regional Police Commander Removed After Election Violence

The Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Frank Abrokwa, has been removed from his position. His removal is linked to violence during the Council of State election in Kumasi. This election took place on February 11, 2025.

Reports indicate that Abrokwa has been reassigned to the Police Headquarters in Accra. The election was disrupted when unidentified thugs stormed the voting center. They interrupted the sorting and counting of ballots.

The unrest followed the unexpected defeat of National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate Yaw Owusu Obimpeh. Supporters were upset and demanded a review of the results. Video footage showed security personnel struggling to manage the situation.

As tensions escalated, election proceedings were temporarily suspended.

Interior Minister Discusses Inspector General's Future

Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, the Minister for the Interior, spoke about Inspector General of Police George Akuffo Dampare's future. During his vetting, he stated that his role would be to provide recommendations to President John Mahama.

Muntaka assured that all team members would be assessed under Mahama’s vision for Ghana. Dampare was appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo in July 2021.

Changes at Economic and Organised Crime Office

President John Mahama has terminated COP Maame Tiwaa Addo-Danquah's appointment as Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office. She will be reassigned within the Ghana Police Service.

This change aims to address public concerns over recent performance in financial crime cases. It follows an incident where assailants attacked the office in Accra and damaged a bust honoring Addo-Danquah.

Investigation into Election Deaths Requested

President Mahama has requested investigations into deaths during the 2020 and 2024 general elections. He emphasized that justice must be served for victims and their families.

To ensure transparency, he proposed establishing a task force. This group will collaborate with families, witnesses, electoral bodies, and review security arrangements using forensic evidence.