Ghana’s Outgoing President Faces Social Media Backlash Over Statue of Himself

In a move that has sparked widespread debate, Ghana’s outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo unveiled a statue of himself during a recent tour of the Western Region. The monument, strategically placed outside the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi, aims to honour the development initiatives undertaken during his presidency, according to the region’s minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah.

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However, many Ghanaians have reacted with skepticism and mockery, labelling the statue as an act of “self-glorification.” Opposition MP Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah voiced the sentiments of numerous citizens on social media, stating, “The people of the Western Region deserve better than these self-serving displays.”

Akufo-Addo, who will be stepping down in January after two terms, claims to have fulfilled 80% of his promises to the nation. During what has been referred to as a “thank-you tour,” he highlighted various key projects initiated under his administration. Nonetheless, critics have raised concerns over the statue’s significance, particularly in light of several unfinished projects.

“It would be admirable if the president had allowed posterity to recognise and appreciate his work,” commented a user on social media, reflecting the views of many who feel that the statue is premature.

While the statue has garnered significant criticism, there are also voices supporting the president’s contributions. Some supporters assert that he deserves recognition for his role in advancing Ghana’s development, with one individual stating, “He is very deserving of this exquisite monument. The greatest president I’ve ever had. You will be missed by Ghanaians,” praising his establishment of the free education system.

During his tour, the 80-year-old president emphasised his administration’s achievements, particularly the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which he described as his most significant legacy due to its transformative impact on education across the nation.

As the country approaches its general elections on December 7, President Akufo-Addo has urged residents of the Western Region to vote for his deputy, Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate. He asserted that supporting Bawumia would ensure the continuation of his administration’s policies and initiatives.

Despite the celebratory tone of the unveiling, the backdrop of ongoing economic challenges, including a high cost of living, remains a crucial issue for many Ghanaians. The upcoming elections will see Bawumia face former President John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), as both candidates seek to address the pressing needs of the populace.

As conversations around the statue and the president’s legacy continue to unfold, the focus remains on how the electorate will respond in the upcoming elections, shaping the future direction of the nation.