John Dramani Mahama, flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of having a strong desire for honorary doctorates.
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Speaking at a campaign rally in Kasoa, Mahama criticised Akufo-Addo’s perceived “appetite” for these accolades, stating that the President has pressured universities in Ghana to award him honorary titles.
Mahama questioned Akufo-Addo’s motivation as “President Akufo-Addo has pressured all the universities in Ghana to give him an honorary doctorate. I don’t even understand where he’s going with the ‘Dr.’ title.”
This criticism comes as Akufo-Addo has received numerous honorary degrees from universities in Ghana, Africa, and Europe over the past eight years.
The former President also targeted Akufo-Addo’s perceived lack of humility, responding to the recent unveiling of a statue in the President’s honour in the Western Region.
Mahama stated, “The end of ‘try me and see’ is trials. The hardships we’re facing today show that President Akufo-Addo is indifferent. As a leader, you should be humble enough to allow others to praise you. You don’t erect and unveil your own statue.”
Mahama’s comments reflect his ongoing criticism of Akufo-Addo’s administration, which he believes has mishandled the economy and governed with impunity.
With the 2024 general election approaching, Mahama’s remarks are likely to intensify the debate on leadership and accountability in Ghana.