Martin Amidu confirms authenticity of leaked tape implicating high-ranking officials in plot against IGP Dampare

Former Special Prosecutor, Martin A. B. K. Amidu, has affirmed the authenticity of the leaked tape implicating high-ranking officials allegedly conspiring to remove Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare from office.

In a written statement, Amidu confirmed the validity of the leaked 50-minute recording and recognized the voice of one of the individuals involved, whom he had previously represented as a client during his time as a lawyer in the Northern Region.

According to Graphic.gh.com report, Martin Amidu further noted that he had personally been in the Accra office of the person in question and witnessed their tendency to receive phone calls during serious discussions, suggesting that this could explain the presence of a recording.

He also suggested that inexperienced individuals might feel at ease due to the interruptions caused by incoming calls.

The leaked tape, which emerged on July 11, allegedly involves a prominent police commissioner and some leaders of the governing New Patriotic Party plotting to remove the IGP. According to the recording, the plotters perceive Dampare as a potential obstacle to the party's success in the 2024 elections.

The government, represented by Minister of the Interior Ambrose Derry, has strongly denied the allegations, dismissing the leaked tape as baseless.

Amidu additionally stated, "A commissioner of police named Mr. Mensah, who has four months remaining on terminal leave before departing from the Ghana Police Service, was heard on the leaked tape, along with other senior officers engaging in discussions against the IGP on various platforms."


He claimed that such behavior is rooted in a tradition within the police force, where colleagues are undermined in order to secure preferential treatment for higher appointments.

Alleging that the IGP was selected based on demonstrated loyalty to the government, Amidu asserted that discussions regarding his predecessor's replacement began long before their departure. He also claimed personal knowledge that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who chairs the Police Council and oversaw the meeting that formally recommended Dampare's appointment to the President, was a strong supporter of Dampare even before the IGP position became vacant.

Drawing upon his own experiences as a former member of the Ghana Police Council and Minister for the Interior, Amidu explained that vacancies in the office of the IGP often lead to lobbying and maneuvering among the top ranks of the Police Administration, especially when limited positions are available. He stated that senior police officers frequently lobby for enhanced positions and share stories about their competitors.

Amidu concluded by highlighting the potential for further scheming and maneuvering among senior police officers seeking the early removal of IGP Dampare due to his relatively young age and potential long tenure in the position.

He characterized the contents of the leaked tape as typical of the internal politicking within the Ghana Police Service