President Mahama appoints new security chiefs for GNFS, Ghana Prisons, and Immigration Service

New Appointments

• Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS): Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong has been promoted to Chief Fire Officer, succeeding Julius A. Kuunuor

• Ghana Prisons Service: Deputy Director of Prisons (DDGP) Patience Baffoe-Bonnie has been elevated to Director-General, taking over from Isaac Kofi Egyir.

• Ghana Immigration Service: Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCI) Samuel Basentale Amadu has been appointed as Comptroller-General, replacing Kwame Asuah Takyi.

These appointments were officially announced on March 14, 2025, and are part of President Mahama's broader strategy to modernize and enhance the efficiency of Ghana's security services.

Background and Expectations

The newly appointed leaders bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to their respective agencies:

• DCFO Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong is anticipated to implement advanced fire safety protocols and strengthen community outreach programs to improve fire prevention and response.

• DDGP Patience Baffoe-Bonnie is expected to address challenges such as prison overcrowding and to enhance rehabilitation programs, aiming for more humane and effective correctional facilities.

• DCI Samuel Basentale Amadu will likely focus on fortifying border security and streamlining immigration processes to balance national security with the facilitation of legitimate travel and commerce.

Recent Security Leadership Changes

These appointments follow the recent swearing-in of Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Inspector-General of Police, indicating a comprehensive effort by the administration to reform and strengthen Ghana's security sector. 

Legal Context

It is noteworthy that these changes occur amid legal proceedings initiated by Imani Ghana and security expert Professor Kwesi Aning. They have filed a suit at the Supreme Court seeking to restrain the President from making such appointments until a pending case is resolved in May 2025. The plaintiffs argue that removing current security heads before the court's decision could be unjust. 

Conclusion

President Mahama's recent appointments reflect a decisive approach to enhancing the leadership of Ghana's security agencies. As these new heads assume their roles, their leadership will be pivotal in addressing existing challenges and advancing the effectiveness of their respective services.