Ghana’s former president and current opposition leader, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed dismay at President Nana Akufo-Addo’s decision to unveil a statue of himself in Sekondi-Takoradi, questioning the gesture as one of self-promotion rather than genuine public service.

The statue, erected near the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital and unveiled on November 6 during President Akufo-Addo’s one-day “thank you” tour of the Western Region, has sparked significant public discussion and scrutiny. Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), suggested that the statue symbolizes self-adulation rather than a commemoration of the President’s contributions.

During a campaign speech in Ghana’s Central Region on Friday, Mahama remarked, “As a leader, you need others to speak positively of your achievements—not to commission a statue of yourself. We gave Akufo-Addo a chance, but he has not delivered. Now he’s commissioning a statue in his own name. Have you heard of such a thing?”

Defending the statue, Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah argued it is meant to honor President Akufo-Addo’s contributions to the region, citing projects such as the refurbishment of Effia Nkwanta Hospital, the Sinohydro interchange construction, and the redevelopment of Takoradi Market Circle. But Mahama countered, asserting that the President’s decision reflects a desire for self-glorification rather than recognition of genuine achievements.

Mahama also referenced past instances of what he described as Akufo-Addo’s pursuit of accolades while in office, noting that several universities have awarded the President honorary doctorates. “Normally, such honors are conferred at the end of one’s service, not while in power,” Mahama remarked.

The debate over the statue comes amidst intensifying election campaigns as both candidates seek to secure support in the lead-up to Ghana’s upcoming national elections.

Source:TheDotNews