The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has ordered that a specialized committee consisting of seven members to conduct an inquiry into the leaked audio concerning the alleged discussion on removal of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare from his position.
The committee, led by Mr. Bagbin, will comprise three lawmakers from each side of the House and will be supported by a technical expert who will assist in the investigation.
Mr. Bagbin emphasized that the issue at hand extends beyond the purview of the defense and interior committee and called for individuals proficient in information technology (IT) and other relevant areas to lend their expertise to the committee’s work.
Names of Members
Prior to adjourning the House, Mr. Bagbin urged the leadership of both the Majority and Minority caucuses to submit the names of their respective members for the committee. He set a one-week deadline for the submission of names, considering the need for prior consultation.
Terms of Reference
The Speaker’s directive followed the submission of the terms of reference for the committee’s investigation by Minority Leader Emmanuel Kofi Armah-Buah, in accordance with Mr. Bagbin’s instructions. The terms of reference include authenticating the leaked audio recording, probing the conspiracy to remove the current IGP, investigating any other matters contained in the recording, recommending appropriate sanctions for culpable individuals, suggesting necessary reforms, and making additional recommendations and consequential orders as deemed appropriate by the committee.
Reason for the Committee
The decision to form the committee is a response to the demand made by the Minority caucus of Parliament, who called for a comprehensive forensic audit to ascertain the authenticity and credibility of the leaked tape. This call came after Mr. Armah-Buah presented an urgent statement regarding the alleged leaked tape during a session in Parliament the previous Wednesday.
According to Mr. Armah-Buah, the leaked tape purportedly involved senior members of the New Patriotic Party engaging in discussions with a senior police officer regarding the Assin North by-election, the role of the IGP, and the IGP’s alleged failure to support the NPP in winning the election. He expressed concern over attempts to remove the IGP and the discussion surrounding the 2024 elections, which aimed to replace Dr. Dampare with a new IGP who would collude with the sitting government to achieve a desired outcome. Mr. Armah-Buah emphasized that this matter is crucial for national security and warrants clarification from Parliament.
Forensic Audit
Supporting the statement, former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu stressed that the leaked tape contained issues related to the IGP’s conduct, as well as efforts and conspiracies aimed at his removal. Mr. Iddrisu noted that the President and the Interior Minister hold the primary responsibility for the safety and security of citizens, which is entrusted to the IGP.
Due to the unidentified individuals involved in the tape, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized the necessity of a thorough forensic audit to determine their identities. He further stated that conducting such an audit is crucial not only to preserve the professional integrity of the IGP but also to ensure that future elections in the country are conducted free from intimidation and fear. Therefore, he urged the House to conduct a comprehensive forensic audit to verify the authenticity of the leaked tape.
Incorrect Impression
Contributing to the discussion, Minister of Local Government Dan Botwe condemned insecurity in any circumstance. However, he cautioned against creating the impression that the appointment of an IGP by a ruling government determines the outcome of an election.
While acknowledging the right of the Speaker to investigate the existence of the tape, Mr. Botwe expressed concern over the Minority’s comments that implied a particular IGP in office influences election results. He cited previous elections held under different IGPs, which saw opposition parties winning parliamentary seats across the country.