Peter Toobu pushes for fixed terms for IGP and other security chiefs
The Member of Parliament for Wa West, Peter Lanchene Toobu, is calling for urgent legislative reforms to establish fixed terms for heads of security agencies, especially the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
According to Toobu, a retired policeman, securing the tenure of security chiefs is essential to protect them from undue political interference and to strengthen the stability and professionalism of Ghana’s security services.
His comments come in the wake of an injunction filed by think tank IMANI Africa and security analyst Professor Kwesi Aning, aimed at preventing President John Dramani Mahama from removing IGP Dr George Akuffo Dampare.
The suit seemed to have been dead on arrival as President Mahama appointed a new IGP on the same day before the Supreme Court could make a declaration on the matter.
The presidency cited broader reforms within the security sector as a reason for the shake-up.
Mr Toobu expressed deep concern over the politicisation of appointments and dismissals within the security sector.
He argued that Ghana’s democratic maturity demands a new approach, one that shields security leadership from changes in political power.
“If Ghanaians believe the current system is flawed, then it’s time to act. We need to create a legal framework that guarantees tenure security for the IGP and other security heads. Whether through new legislation, repealing outdated laws, or constitutional amendments, we must ensure a more structured, transparent process for appointments and removals,” he said on Channel One TV.
He reaffirmed his commitment to pushing this reform agenda, stressing that fixed tenures would promote long-term strategic planning and reinforce professionalism within Ghana’s security institutions.
He called on all stakeholders—legislatives, civil society, and the public—to initiate a national dialogue on the issue, emphasising that safeguarding the independence of security chiefs is vital to deepening Ghana’s democracy.