A Professor at the University of Ghana, Ransford Gyampo, has criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s comment made during his visit to the flood-affected areas in the Volta Region, deeming it unpresidential.
Professor Gyampo argued that in times of disaster, a president’s utterances should inspire confidence in the people, not dampen their spirits.
President Akufo-Addo’s comments were delivered while he interacted with the flood-affected residents of Mepe, who suffered from the spillage of the Akosombo Dam on October 16. During his visit, the President assured the people that he was the president for all Ghanaians, regardless of their political affiliation, and that the government would do everything within its powers to alleviate their suffering.
While interacting with the local leaders, President Akufo-Addo stated, “When I took the oath of office as president, I took the oath of office as president for every single individual in Ghana, of all the people in Ghana, all districts, whether they voted for me or not. Once I have taken the oath of office, I am the president of all the people.”
Professor Gyampo, commenting on the President’s speech on TV3’s Key Points program, expressed his disapproval. He said that in times of disaster, what people need is leadership that inspires confidence. He added that the President’s demeanor and the way he spoke were unpresidential, especially when addressing the local leaders.
The flooding in the region has had a significant impact on various aspects of life, including education, health, mobility, shelter, and access to food for the affected communities.
The President’s visit aimed to offer support and reassurance to the victims of the flood. However, it appears that his comments have been met with mixed reactions, including criticism for not projecting the desired leadership qualities during a crisis.