Ghana’s outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo has ignited a fierce debate on social media after unveiling a statue of himself in front of a regional hospital in Sekondi. This gesture, presented as a tribute to his own development efforts, has been met with both praise and criticism, reflecting the complexities of his two terms in office.
Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah defended the statue as a commemoration of Akufo-Addo’s contributions to the Western Region, introduced during a “thank-you tour” that underscored his administration’s projects and achievements. However, the statue quickly drew sharp criticism, with many Ghanaians viewing it as an act of self-promotion rather than public service. This backlash has seen citizens questioning whether such a monument is appropriate, particularly with some of Akufo-Addo’s key initiatives still incomplete.
Prominent opposition voices joined the chorus of disapproval, including MP Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, who posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “The people of the Western Region deserve better than these self-serving displays.” Many echoed his sentiment, suggesting that tributes like this should be left to future generations, not crafted by those still in power. One social media user remarked, “It would have been admirable if the president had left such recognitions to posterity.”
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Amid the backlash, supporters of Akufo-Addo stood firm, highlighting his policy achievements, particularly his initiative for free secondary education. Describing it as his most significant legacy, advocates celebrated him as the architect of Ghana’s free education system, with some insisting that his contributions justify the statue. “He is deserving of this monument – the greatest president I’ve ever had,” one supporter posted, underscoring the deep divide in public opinion.
The unveiling also comes at a politically charged moment, as Akufo-Addo’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) gears up for the upcoming general election. The president used the tour to rally support for Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s candidate, urging voters to allow Bawumia to carry forward his administration’s policies. Bawumia’s main challenger, former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has focused on the high cost of living, a central issue for many Ghanaians as they head to the polls.
With the election fast approaching, the statue has become more than just a monument – it is a symbol of the debate over Akufo-Addo’s legacy and the direction of Ghana’s future.
