Minority expresses worry over IGP’s recruitment promise to Bawku residents

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The Minority in Parliament has raised concerns over the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno’s promise of priority in police recruitment as part of efforts to restore calm in Bawku.
Addressing a press conference, the Minority Chief Whip and Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP described it as reckless and unfortunate.

“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,” he stated.

IGP Yohonu made the promise during a visit to Bawku on Friday, April 11, following violent clashes in the area that claimed one life and left others injured.

He acknowledged the resilience of the community and announced that a dedicated recruitment team would soon be deployed to the region to offer employment opportunities to local youth.

 However, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh has cautioned that such statements risk setting a dangerous precedent in other parts of the country, where similar crisis may occur.
Urging the IGP to reconsider the statement, the MP added that it undermines the integrity of law enforcement.

 

“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 questioned.

Meanwhile, President John Mahama has announced that the peace mediation process led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will resume next week.

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