IGP Yohuno Calls for Better Police-Media Engagement
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has reaffirmed the Ghana Police Service’s commitment to bridging the communication gap between the police and the media. He made this statement at the opening of a three-day workshop for Regional and Unit Public Affairs Officers at the Detective Training Academy (DTA) in Accra on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
The workshop, which brings together Public Affairs Officers from across the country, is aimed at enhancing their communication skills, reinforcing ethical media engagement, and equipping them with strategies to foster public confidence in the police.
In his address, the IGP acknowledged that policing is not just a profession but a responsibility that requires accountability and transparency. He emphasized that effective policing is a partnership, and the trust between law enforcement and the public is crucial in maintaining order and security.
“As Public Affairs Officers, your role in shaping public perception through effective communication cannot be overemphasized. The public must trust the police, and that trust is built through open, credible, and consistent engagement with the media,” Mr. Yohuno noted.
He highlighted the Ghana Police Service’s efforts to revive and strengthen its Regional Public Affairs Offices to improve interactions with the media and the public.
The IGP underscored the importance of professional and ethical media engagement, stressing that police communications must adhere to Service Instructions No. 7 (S.I. 7), which outlines guidelines for interacting with the media.
He outlined three key pillars for Public Affairs Officers namely:
- Confidentiality and Transparency saying, Officers must protect sensitive information while maintaining openness.
- Integrity and Credibility. He said all interactions with the media must adhere to the highest ethical standards.
- Consistency in Messaging. That the Police communications across all regions must be uniform and clear.
Recognizing the growing threat of misinformation, the IGP urged Public Affairs Officers to be proactive in countering false narratives, particularly in the digital age, to ensure accurate information reaches the public.
Mr. Yohuno reassured the officers of the Police Administration’s unwavering support in their efforts to enhance police-community relations. He stressed that public engagement is key to restoring confidence in law enforcement and encouraged officers to use the workshop as an opportunity to refine their strategies.
“There is no greater fulfillment than serving your country with dedication and integrity. Your role in strengthening the bond between the police and the communities we serve is irreplaceable,” he stated.
The workshop is expected to provide officers with advanced communication techniques and practical solutions to improve police-media relations, ensuring that the Ghana Police Service remains accountable, transparent, and responsive to public concerns.
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