Mahama criticizes Akufo-Addo’s self-commissioned statue as shocking

John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, recently criticized President Nana Akufo-Addo’s decision to commission a statue of himself near the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi-Takoradi. The statue, unveiled on November 6 during President Akufo-Addo’s one-day “thank you” tour of the Western Region, has stirred public discussion and debate.

Mahama questioned the intention behind the statue, suggesting it reflects a focus on self-praise rather than genuine acknowledgment of substantial achievements. “As a leader, you need people to say good things about your work and not the other way around,” Mahama commented during a campaign event in the Central Region on November 8. He went on to say, “He went to Takoradi to commission a statue of him, have you heard this before?”

In defense, the Western Regional Minister explained that the statue was meant to honor the President’s contributions to the region, including the rehabilitation of Effia Nkwanta Hospital, the construction of the Sinohydro interchange, and the redevelopment of Takoradi Market Circle.

However, Mahama contends that the statue appears more about self-glorification than a celebration of tangible achievements. He further criticized President Akufo-Addo’s tendency to seek honors while in office, saying, “He convinced all universities to confer on him a doctorate degree when he was already in power. How? I don’t know where he’s taking those doctorates. You have to end your tenure for the universities to rather confer the awards on you depending on your accomplishments.”

Mahama concluded with a remark on leadership, stating, “Trial and error normally ends in failure. Akufo-Addo said we should try him, we tried him and he failed. As if he cares.”

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