Allegations circulating on social media and some online platforms claiming that ten junior police officers abandoned their lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) have been exposed as baseless and misleading. Far from deserting their legal battle, the officers made a calculated move to strengthen their case by withdrawing their initial suit, amending it, and re-filing it in court.
The Punch has dug into the claims and found them to be nothing more than an attempt to misinform the public and undermine the officers’ pursuit of justice. This report sets the record straight on the matter and highlights critical facts ignored by the sensational narratives being peddled.
The Allegation vs. The Truth
The narrative propagated by certain platforms is that the officers, dissatisfied with their transfers, filed a case challenging the orders but later abandoned it. This could not be further from the truth. The officers’ withdrawal from the initial case was a strategic legal decision to improve their arguments and provide stronger evidence. The suit was promptly refiled, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the legal process.
The Hawk questions the motivation behind these misleading reports. Are they the result of a misunderstanding of legal procedures, or is there a deliberate agenda to mislead the public and discredit the officers?
Key Facts Debunking the Misinformation
1. Case Withdrawal Was Strategic, Not Abandonment
The withdrawal of the initial lawsuit was aimed at allowing the officers to refile with additional details and better particulars to fortify their case. Such legal manoeuvres are routine in judicial proceedings and reflect strategic thinking, not retreat.
2. Defendants Have Yet to Respond
Since the refiled suit, the IGP and the Police Administration have not filed a response. If the case had been abandoned, one would expect no need for a defence or engagement with the court.
3. Adjournment Request by Defendants
On December 16, 2024, the defendants’ legal team appeared in court—not to dismiss the case—but to seek an adjournment to February 2025. This act directly contradicts any claims of abandonment. Why request an adjournment for a case that no longer exists?
Media Responsibility and Ethical Concerns
The Hawk observes with concern the irresponsible manner in which some outlets have handled this story. Ethical journalism demands fairness, accuracy, and balanced reporting. By failing to present the perspectives of the junior officers and their legal representatives, these reports have painted a one-sided narrative that distorts public perception of the matter.
Such sensationalism does more harm than good. It undermines the integrity of the media, erodes public confidence in the judicial process, and disrespects the efforts of individuals seeking justice.
A Wake-Up Call to Fight Misinformation
As we enter 2025, combating misinformation must be a priority. The deliberate spread of false narratives is not only a disservice to the affected parties but also to society at large. The Punch calls for greater accountability among journalists and media outlets to ensure that truth and transparency remain at the core of their work.
The junior officers, who have taken a stand against what they perceive as injustice, should not be subjected to unwarranted attacks or misrepresentation. Their resolve to pursue justice through legal channels must be respected.
Conclusion
The claims that the junior police officers abandoned their lawsuit against the IGP are baseless and a misrepresentation of their actions. These brave officers have shown their commitment to due process and must not be discredited by inaccurate or biased reporting.
Happy New Year to all Ghanaians! May this year bring justice, unity, and progress to our nation.
Nana Ewusi Kwansah
Email: kwansahnanaewusi@gmail.com
