Unjust Detentions: Joseph Archibald Adjei Calls for Police Reforms to Protect Vulnerable Citizens

Joseph Archibald Adjei, a passionate advocate for justice, has sounded the alarm on misconduct within Ghana’s police force, highlighting the unjust detention of citizens based on personal connections or one-sided reports.

Archibald argues that officers often fail to investigate both sides of a case, leading to the disproportionate targeting of vulnerable citizens, particularly the poor.

Many citizens are detained due to lack of knowledge or inability to express themselves effectively at police stations.

Archibald stresses that officers should listen carefully to all parties involved before making decisions that affect people’s freedom. Hasty arrests must be avoided, and thorough investigations conducted before placing individuals in custody.

Archibald’s call for police reform seeks to restore public confidence in Ghana’s law enforcement. He emphasizes the need for transparency, integrity, and impartiality within the police force. Officers must prioritize justice over personal bias or expediency and be held accountable for their actions.

The Ghana Police Service has a constitutional mandate to prevent and detect crime, apprehend offenders, and maintain public order and safety. To achieve this, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) must ensure officers uphold fairness and the rule of law.

In a positive move, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has appointed Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Deputy Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in charge of Operations ¹. This appointment is seen as a step towards reform.

As Ghana strives for a fair and just society, it is imperative that the police service prioritizes transparency, integrity, and impartiality. By listening to advocates like Joseph Archibald Adjei and implementing meaningful reforms, Ghana can build a more confident and trusting relationship between law enforcement and its citizens.

By Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy