Meet the 3 retired police commissioners supporting John Mahama’s presidential bid
The former president of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has enlisted three retired police officers to his campaign team, recognizing them for their outstanding work in combating crime.
COP Kofi Boakye, COP Mohammed Alhassan, and COP Bright Oduro, the former director general of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), are among the past police commissioners.
The trio has been actively involved in numerous nationwide campaign events alongside the former president, who serves as the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) flagbearer.
The officers most recently showed their support for Mahama’s bid for president in the 2024 elections by being seen at the Kumasi 24-hour economy walk and the ongoing “Building Ghana Tour” in the Eastern region.
All three were spotted during one of Mahama’s regional tours according to a 3news.com report.
1. COP Kofi Boakye
COP Kofi Boakye, widely known as Commander One, has enjoyed a close relationship with John Mahama, sparking speculation that he may have aspirations to become the running mate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate.
Boakye, the former head of the Ghana Police Service’s Legal and Prosecution Division, earned his reputation as one of the country’s most popular and beloved senior police officers.
During his tenure, Commander One led high-profile crime-fighting efforts, including the apprehension of notorious armed robber Ataa Ayi in 2005.
2. Former IGP Mohammed Alhassan
Former Inspector General of Police Mohammed Alhassan, who received national honours in 2013, has also thrown his support behind Mahama’s bid.
Alhassan was among the dignitaries honoured by President Mahama in 2013, for distinguished service to the nation.
3. COP Bright Oduro (Rtd)
COP (Rtd) Bright Oduro, the former Director General of the CID, once openly admitted to political influence in the promotion of senior police officers.
He argued that promotions within the police force, from Assistant Commissioner of Police to the Inspector-General of Police, are inherently political due to the final approval by the president and recommendations made by the Police Council.
Oduro, controversially relieved of his position in 2017, faced accusations of engaging with land guards for illegal activities by Assin Central Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong.