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Ghana’s outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo is facing a wave of criticism on social media after unveiling a statue of himself outside a regional hospital in Sekondi.
Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah explained that the statue, presented during a “thank-you tour” in the Western Region, was intended to honor Akufo-Addo’s development efforts during his two terms in office. However, many Ghanaians have interpreted it as an act of self-promotion rather than public service, fueling online backlash.
Opposition MP Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah criticized the statue, expressing on X that “the people of the Western Region deserve better than these self-serving displays.” Others echoed similar sentiments, questioning the statue’s appropriateness given that several of the president’s initiatives remain unfinished. One commenter remarked that it “would have been more admirable if the president had left such recognitions to posterity.”
Despite the controversy, some defended the statue, praising Akufo-Addo’s contributions, particularly his flagship policy of free secondary education, which he regards as his “most significant legacy.” Supporters called him the architect of Ghana’s free education system, with one fan declaring, “He is deserving of this monument – the greatest president I’ve ever had.”
The tour has also served as a platform for the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) campaign ahead of next month’s general election. Akufo-Addo urged voters to support Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s candidate, to continue his administration’s policies.
Bawumia’s main rival will be former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), with the cost of living being a central issue in the upcoming race.
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