Muntaka pledges reforms in security services recruitment and promotions

The Minister Designate for the Ministry of Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka has pledged to reform recruitment and promotion practices within Ghana’s security services.

Speaking during his vetting before the Appointments Committee today January 24, 2025, Mr Muntaka outlined plans to tackle political interference and improve fairness in personnel management.

He stressed the need to address long-standing issues such as delayed promotions and limited career opportunities in the police, prison, and fire services.

The nominee highlighted the challenges in current personnel management systems, which he said have frustrated many service members.

He proposed measures such as codified promotion processes, transparent performance evaluations, merit-based advancements, and clear documentation of career progression paths.

Explaining the promotion structure in the Ghana Police Service, Mubarak described the three-tiered system, which requires presidential approval for ranks from Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) upwards, Police Council endorsement for ranks between Superintendent and ACP, and police administration management for lower ranks up to Chief Inspector.

He pledged to introduce measures to promote fairness in the system.

“We need to look dispassionately at what can be done in the best interest of our country,” Muntaka said, indicating his intent to review current practices and introduce reforms aimed at motivating security personnel.

Mr Muntaka also addressed concerns about officers being stationed in one post for too long, suggesting a more dynamic approach to transfers to allow for professional growth and increased productivity.