John Galbraith, in The Anatomy of Power, pointed out that politicians often obscure personal interests under the guise of public service, while adversaries of society portray themselves as champions of the masses (Cited in Omotunde, 1988:10). This observation resonates deeply with me when examining the recent cheap political jabs by NAPO against our own Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah, as well as foolish comments from Chairman Wontumi against Professor Naana Opoku Agyeman and former President John Mahama. Is it politics as usual?
As the saying goes, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” I was deeply disheartened when Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, made a statement in Twi, and I quote, "MO MFA MO KWAME NKRUMAH," which translates to "take your Kwame Nkrumah." The applause and laughter from the audience demonstrated a disturbing level of disdain towards Osagyefo Nkrumah. This is a man who never betrayed or disrespected the presidential office, a man who never squandered taxpayer money on flying a girlfriend in a state-hired presidential jet.
Again, this careless utterance from NAPO, "MO MFA MO KWAME NKRUMAH," has made it evident to me that not all individuals holding a PhD are profound thinkers; NAPO is a clear example of such a characterization. Even if NAPO were to become the next President, he would never earn my respect. He comes across as a shallow-minded individual and perhaps a clown. Where is the Akan wise saying of “BU OPANIN”? or respect for the elderly?
I must also point out the recent derogatory remarks by figures like Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, regarding Professor Naana Opoku Agyeman and former President John Mahama being secretly married, and that Professor Naana Opoku Agyeman is not Akan but hails from the Northern part of Ghana, highlight a disturbing trend of disrespect in Ghanaian politics. Such remarks not only undermine the dignity of political discourse but also reflect a departure from the statesmanship embodied by Nkrumah.
NAPO’s disparaging remark, "MO MFA MO KWAME NKRUMAH," reveals a shallow understanding of Ghana's history and a disregard for Nkrumah's monumental contributions compared to President Nana Addo, whose actions, particularly the misuse of state resources and the disregard for presidential decorum, further underscore the decline in ethical standards compared to Nkrumah's era.
John Galbraith was right when he said politicians often obscure personal interests under the guise of public service, while adversaries of society portray themselves as champions of the masses. Cheap jabs by NAPO against Kwame Nkrumah and foolish comments from Chairman Wontumi against Professor Naana Opoku Agyeman and President John Mahama clearly show that it is politics as usual. Well, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Ebenezer Ato Ntarkurfah Jackson, Cornell University, MBA Class of 2015, [email protected]
By Ebenezer Ato Ntarkurfah Jackson
Current Cedi appreciation not a result of any policy by NDC — Bawumia
Let’s bridge gap between cultural beliefs and dermatological science – Dr Brifo
Bawku conflict: Bongo district NHIA director killed, burnt in Nangodi
No need for dumsor timetable; we have enough generation capacity — Energy Minist...
‘Concerned NPP Lawyers’ takes on Sampson Lardi Anyenini over alleged attacks on...
Ghana will be hurt more if we retaliate US’ 10% tariffs — Dr Amin Adam
Traders clash with transport operators over planned protest in Ashanti Region
‘Look out for signs of depression to prevent suicides’ — Mental Health Nurse urg...
Africa must seize this moment to unite towards progress — Kimathi Rawlings
Cedi appreciation not accidental, stems from a robust policy framework — Finance...
