IGP Clears 10-Year Promotion Backlog, Elevates 12,802 Police Officers
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has approved the promotion of 12,802 police officers between January and the first week of February 2026, effectively clearing a decade-long backlog within the Ghana Police Service.
The promotions, which span ranks from Lance Corporal to Chief Inspector, were confirmed by the IGP’s Secretariat. According to the Secretariat, the exercise was largely administrative and based on special recommendations carried out in accordance with the Police Service Regulations, 2012 (C.I. 76).
In a statement, the Secretariat dismissed allegations of nepotism that have trailed the recent promotions, insisting that due process was strictly followed.
“All unit, district, divisional and regional commanders across the country’s 25 police regions were directed to submit the names of officers due for promotion. The process was transparent and guided by the established regulations of the Service,” the Secretariat explained.
Out of the total number promoted, approximately 11,900 officers in the lower ranks were elevated by one rank after serving beyond the stipulated four-year period required for advancement. An additional 600 officers were promoted based on special recommendations in recognition of exemplary service and other meritorious considerations.
The Secretariat further revealed that the Service had received several petitions from officers who claimed they had been unfairly treated or faced prolonged delays in their promotions. Some of the affected officers had reportedly been on interdiction for more than five years but were later acquitted and discharged.
“Following a thorough review of these cases, the administration granted them their deserved promotions,” the statement noted.
In addition, families of officers who died in the line of duty also petitioned the Service for recognition of their loved ones’ sacrifices. The IGP subsequently approved posthumous promotions for the deceased officers.
The Secretariat described the mass promotion as part of ongoing efforts by the current administration to boost morale, restore fairness, and strengthen professionalism within the Ghana Police Service.
