The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has promoted 12,802 police officers, clearing a backlog of promotions dating back 5-10 years between January and the first week of February 2026.

The promotions, which cut across ranks from Lance Corporals to Chief Inspectors, were administrative and based on special recommendations, in line with Police Service Regulations.

According to the Secretariat, the elevations were largely administrative and based on special recommendations, in line with the Police Service Regulations, 2012 (Constitutional Instrument 76).

Regulation 37 of CI 76 stipulates that promotions within the Ghana Police Service shall be based on promotion examinations, seniority and length of service, subject to satisfactory performance and good conduct.

It also allows for special recommendations in cases of meritorious acts of bravery, valour in crime prevention, or outstanding performance of duty.

The police dismissed media claims of nepotism in the recent promotions, stating that the process was supervised by commanders at unit, district, divisional, and regional levels across 25 police regions nationwide.

“Information was sent to all the units, districts, divisional and regional commanders across the 25 police regions to submit names of officers who were due for promotion, and that was how the administration arrived at the final list”.

Approximately 11,900 lower-rank officers were promoted after serving beyond the required 4-year period, while 600 officers received promotions for exemplary service. The Secretariat stated that these measures aim to encourage hard work and recognize officers’ dedication.

The Secretariat revealed that numerous petitions were received alleging unfair treatment of officers. After review, some officers on interdiction for over 5 years were acquitted, discharged, and granted promotions. Others had errors in promotion dates corrected, rectifying delays in their advancement.

Families of officers who died in service also received recognition, with the Service granting posthumous promotions. The Secretariat said this exercise aims to restore fairness, boost morale, and strengthen professionalism within the Police Service.

Report by Bernard K Dadzie Greater Accra Region