Ghana’s outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo has sparked significant controversy on social media following the unveiling of a statue in his honor during a recent tour of the Western Region. The monument, positioned outside Sekondi’s Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, aims to recognize the president’s alleged contributions to the country’s development initiatives. However, many Ghanaians view this act as self-glorification, leading to widespread mockery and criticism online.
Critics have expressed that the people of the Western Region deserve better than what they see as a self-serving display from their leader.
While the regional minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, highlighted various projects initiated under Akufo-Addo’s administration during the unveiling ceremony, public sentiment appears largely negative. Some citizens question the significance of erecting a statue while numerous essential projects remain unfinished.
The statue has drawn mixed reactions across social media platforms. Many users have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their discontent, with one user suggesting that it would have been more commendable for the president to let history acknowledge his work rather than doing so himself. Photos of the statue have gone viral, prompting calls for its removal once Akufo-Addo steps down in January after two terms in office.
Despite the backlash, there are supporters who view the monument as a deserved recognition of Akufo-Addo’s contributions, particularly noting his role in establishing Ghana’s free education system. One supporter referred to him as “the greatest president” they have seen, underscoring a divide in public opinion.
During his tour, which has been termed a “thank-you tour,” Akufo-Addo emphasized his policy achievements, including the elimination of secondary school fees, which he regards as his “most significant legacy.” This visit is also seen as an effort to bolster support for Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of next month’s general election.
As Ghana approaches its elections, Bawumia will represent the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) against former President John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). With rising living costs being a pivotal campaign issue, both parties are expected to address economic concerns alongside ongoing debates about governance and development.
As Ghana navigates this political landscape, public reactions to symbols like Akufo-Addo’s statue will likely influence voter sentiment and shape discussions about leadership accountability in future administrations.
For more updates on Ghanaian politics and developments across Africa, visit BBCAfrica.com.
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