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| Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin |
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has instructed the formation of a special committee consisting of seven members to investigate an alleged leaked audio. The audio reportedly contains a discussion about removing Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr George Akuffo Dampare from his position.
Mr. Bagbin's committee will include three legislators from each side of the House, along with the assistance of a technical person who will support the committee in their investigations.
During the parliamentary session, Mr. Bagbin addressed the need for individuals with expertise in information technology (IT) and other relevant areas to contribute their skills to the committee, as this issue extends beyond the defense and interior committee.
The Speaker requested the leadership of both the Majority and Minority caucuses to submit the names of their members for the committee within one week, allowing time for necessary consultations.
The directive from the Speaker came after Minority Leader Emmanuel Kofi Armah-Buah submitted the terms of reference for the committee's investigation, as per the Speaker's instructions. The terms of reference include verifying the authenticity of the leaked audio recording, investigating the alleged conspiracy to remove the current IGP, examining any other matters contained in the audio recording, recommending appropriate sanctions for individuals found responsible, suggesting necessary reforms, and making any other recommendations and consequential orders deemed appropriate by the committee.
The decision to form the committee was made in response to a demand from the Minority caucus of Parliament, who called for a thorough forensic audit to determine the authenticity and credibility of the leaked tape. This demand followed Mr. Armah-Buah's urgent statement on the alleged leaked tape during the previous session in Parliament.
According to Mr. Armah-Buah, the leaked tape allegedly featured senior members of the New Patriotic Party discussing the Assin North by-election, the role of the IGP, and the alleged failure of the IGP to support the NPP's victory in the election. The discussions in the leaked tape concerning the removal of the IGP and the 2024 elections, along with efforts to install a new IGP to collude with the sitting government, raised concerns in Parliament.
To address the security of the country, it is crucial for the House to establish the authenticity of the leaked tape, as stated by Mr. Armah-Buah.
Former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu supported the call for a thorough forensic audit, emphasizing the need to investigate the matters related to the IGP's conduct and the alleged conspiracy against him. He highlighted the primary duty of the President and the Interior Minister to ensure the safety and security of citizens, which is entrusted to the IGP.
To establish the identities of the individuals in the tape, Mr. Iddrisu stressed the importance of a comprehensive forensic audit. Conducting such an audit would not only uphold the professional integrity of the IGP but also contribute to conducting future elections in a manner free from intimidation and fear.
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. He pointed out that elections in the past, under various IGPs, have seen opposing political parties winning parliamentary seats across the country.
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