“If you want to do politics, resign, put down your uniform, and hand over to the service” – Kwame Asuah-Takyi
The Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Kwame Asuah-Takyi (Esq), has called on officers of the service to maintain professionalism and avoid any form of political bias in their line of duty.
Speaking at the McDan La Town Park during the end-of-year Comptroller-General’s games on Friday 22nd November 2024, he stressed the importance of neutrality and dedication to duty, especially in the build-up to the country’s elections.
Addressing senior and junior officers at the event, the Comptroller-General stated:
“I am very happy and excited to be here today. Initially, we had planned this activity for later, but due to the elections on December 2 for security personnel and the national polls on December 7, we brought it forward.”
A Call for Professionalism
Mr. Asuah-Takyi urged immigration personnel to approach their election duties with diligence, avoiding actions that could compromise their professionalism. He issued a stern reminder:
“Officers and men in uniform, our duty to our dear country is to maintain peace, law, and order. We are not supposed to be involved in politics. If you want to do politics, resign, put down your uniform, and hand over to the service.”
He further cautioned against misconduct at the borders, emphasising the importance of respecting travellers’ rights:
“This message should reach officers at the borders—do not misuse your position to harass visitors or passengers. Perform your duty as professional immigration officers. When necessary, assist other security agencies in maintaining peace and order.”
Upholding Ghana’s Legacy of Peace
Kwame Asuah-Takyi highlighted Ghana’s enviable reputation as a beacon of peace in Africa, urging citizens and officers alike to protect this legacy. Reflecting on the country’s democratic journey, he said:
“Since 1992, we’ve conducted general elections for 32 years. No individual or group should disrupt the peace we have worked so hard to maintain. There is a saying in our culture: ‘You don’t hold a stick and allow a snake to bite you.’ After December 7, we will live in peace as we always have as Ghanaians.”
Drawing from personal experiences, he expressed his deep affection for the nation:
“When I travel abroad, whether for official duties or holidays, something stirs in me—a strong urge to return home. Ghana is the sweetest place on earth. I miss my kenkey, fufu, banku, and okro soup. Ghanaians are kind-hearted and peaceful, and we should not let anyone disrupt this harmony.”
A Plea for Responsibility
The GIS head implored officers to maintain order and discourage those with malicious intentions during the elections. He appealed to their sense of duty, saying:
“December 7 will come and go. Please advise your friends and relatives who may harbor evil thoughts to refrain from causing problems. After the election, whoever emerges victorious, we will embrace it and move forward with gratitude to God.”
Asuah-Takyi’s message underscored the pivotal role of security agencies in safeguarding Ghana’s democracy while calling on every citizen to uphold the nation’s enduring peace.
