The Alliance for Restoration of Civil Rights has announced an upcoming protest themed “Occupy and Cleanse the Crime Scene,” aimed at addressing systemic failures within the Ghana Police Service. During a press conference, representatives of the group cited international reports and local surveys that highlight widespread corruption and misconduct within the police force, calling for urgent reforms to restore public trust.
According to the group, trust in the Ghana Police Service has plummeted, with surveys such as the Afrobarometer revealing that only 28% of Ghanaians have confidence in the service, while 65% identified it as the most corrupt institution in the country. The group also referenced damning reports from the U.S. Department of State and Transparency International, which flagged the Ghana Police Service for corruption, impunity, and human rights abuses, including excessive use of force and torture.
The protest, scheduled for Wednesday, September 11, 2024, aims to push for the dismissal of top police officials, including the Director-General of the CID, ACP Faustina Agyeiwaa Kodua Andoh-Kwofi, the Greater Accra Regional Commander, DCOP Arhin Kwasi Annor, and the Commander of the Anti Armed Robbery Unit, Superintendent Augustine Offei. The Alliance accused these officials of public office misconduct and failure to act on multiple criminal complaints.
In addition to demanding the release of critical information being withheld by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the group has given the IGP a seven-day ultimatum to initiate reforms. Should the IGP fail to comply, the Alliance has vowed to pursue legal action and submit petitions of impeachment to the highest offices, including the President.
The protest will also call for comprehensive reforms within the police force, focusing on improving professionalism, transparency, and accountability. The Alliance is advocating for better training, independent oversight bodies, and public education on civil rights. The group stressed that while many officers serve with dedication, it is systemic corruption and impunity that endanger both the public and police officers alike.
The Alliance for Restoration of Civil Rights hopes to attract international attention, drawing support from human rights organizations and foreign diplomatic missions to pressure the Ghanaian government to address the issues of police injustice. The protest will send a clear message that the current state of affairs is unacceptable, and only through reform can the country restore trust in its law enforcement institutions and uphold justice for all citizens.
