Hicken’s tenure as Top Cop extended to ‘date to be determined’ – Pres. Ali

Commissioner of Police (ag.) Clifton Hicken has reached the age of retirement but President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday confirmed that Hicken’s tenure as Top Cop has been extended.

“I’ve already issued a letter extending the services of the Commissioner of Police,” Dr. Ali told reporters on Monday at the sidelines of an event.

Those services, the President said, have been extended “to a date to be determined”.

In January of this year, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn hinted at Hicken staying on the job, highlighting that the government was satisfied with his performance which has seen the Force making significant strides, particularly as it relates to crime fighting and building community relations.

President Ali appointed Hicken to act as the country’s Commissioner of Police in March 2022.

The move was made to fill the gap after the then Commissioner of Police, Nigel Hoppie proceeded to pre-retirement leave. Before this, Hicken headed the Police Force’s Operations.

Hicken served the Guyana Police Force in capacities including Commander of the then ‘A’ Division (Georgetown) and ‘B’ Division (Berbice).

He was also the Head of the Force Training Centre.

Under the Constitution of Guyana, the President can appoint a Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioners of Police only after consulting with the Opposition Leader and Chairperson of the Police Service Commission (PSC). The Chairperson also has to consult with the other members of the Commission.