Ghana’s outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo has sparked widespread criticism after unveiling a statue of himself outside a regional hospital in Sekondi during a “thank-you tour” in the Western Region.
The statue, described by Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah as a tribute to Akufo-Addo’s developmental achievements over his two terms, has been slammed by critics as self-promotional. Opposition MP Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah called it a “self-serving display,” arguing the region deserved better, while others questioned the timing, citing unfinished projects.
Supporters, however, praised Akufo-Addo’s contributions, particularly his flagship free secondary education policy, which many regard as his greatest legacy.
The tour has also doubled as a campaign effort for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), with Akufo-Addo urging voters to back Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming general election. Bawumia faces a tight race against former President John Dramani Mahama, with economic challenges dominating voter concerns.
