Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh has criticised the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno over what he describes as a reckless and unfortunate statement concerning the ongoing Bawku conflict.
Addressing a press conference held by the Minority on the Bawku crisis, Annoh-Dompreh expressed deep concern over the IGP’s comment suggesting that individuals who lay down their arms could be considered for recruitment into the police service.
“The comment of the IGP — this is purported to be his major public statement ever since he was appointed. And maybe he made that statement just on the spur of the moment, but it is clearly an unfortunate statement.
“It is most unfortunate to say that if you lay down your arms, you’ll be considered for recruitment. It is out of place. If any other person said this, yes, we may not attach seriousness. But coming from the IGP — and the ramifications of that statement — it is critical,” Annoh-Dompreh said.
He warned that such remarks risk setting a dangerous precedent in other parts of the country, where similar crisis may occur.
Annoh-Dompreh urged the IGP to reconsider the statement, adding that such comments undermine the integrity of law enforcement and could embolden violent actors in volatile areas.
“Does it mean that people from other parts of the country will also just fight, and then when they lay down their arms, they will be considered for recruitment into the police service?” he asked.
The Bawku conflict, which has lingered for years, has seen a resurgence of violence, prompting national concern and renewed calls for lasting peace.
Meanwhile, President John Mahama has assured that the Asantehene-led peace mediation process, spearheaded by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will resume next week as part of intensified efforts to restore calm in the conflict-hit Bawku area.
