Emmanuel Felix Mantey, a lecturer and advocate for public interest, has filed a lawsuit against the President of Ghana and several officials regarding the appointment of a new police deputy. Mantey is contesting the appointment of COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno to the role of ‘Deputy Inspector General of Police in Charge of Operations,’ a position he argues does not exist.
Here’s a summary of Mantey’s case:
- Mantey, a resident of House No. D114, Azumah Street, Lebanon-Ashaiman, Greater Accra, claims the appointment is illegal.
- His affidavit asserts that his case is based on his understanding of the law and legal advice.
- Mantey describes himself as a lecturer and public interest advocate.
The respondents in the case include:
- The principal legal adviser to the Government of Ghana, who handles civil cases against the state.
- A constitutional body advising the President on security and police administration.
- The newly appointed Commissioner of the Ghana Police Service, whose appointment Mantey disputes.
Mantey argues that the role of ‘Deputy Inspector General of Police in Charge of Operations’ does not exist within the Ghana Police Service’s structure. He points out that:
- The Police Service Regulations, 2012 (C.I. 76) establish the office of ‘Deputy Inspector General of Police’ but do not create specific divisions.
- The Inspector General of Police is constitutionally responsible for operational control.
Mantey’s lawsuit seeks:
- To bar COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno from acting in the disputed role.
- To prevent the respondents from advancing the appointment.
- An order of quo warranto challenging Yohuno’s appointment.
- Any other court orders deemed appropriate.
This legal action highlights concerns about governance and compliance with constitutional and statutory guidelines in public service appointments.
This is the second legal challenge regarding Yohuno’s appointment. Justice Abdulai, a private legal practitioner, has also filed a lawsuit against the Attorney General and the Ghana Police Service, arguing that the appointment is unconstitutional. Abdulai seeks to restrain Yohuno from acting in his new role and prevent the Inspector General of Police from issuing commands to Yohuno.
President Akufo-Addo appointed COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno as Deputy IGP on July 17, 2024, based on recommendations from the Police Council. Despite this endorsement, the legality of the appointment and the authority of the Police Council are now subjects of legal scrutiny.
