Airport Renaming: This is not the time; we have economic problems to solve - Dr Domfe

Economist, Dr George Domfe, has criticised calls to rename Kotoka International Airport, arguing that Ghana faces far more urgent economic problems that demand attention.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, February 7, 2026, Dr Domfe entreated government to prioritise the stabilisation of the economy rather than diverting energy into symbolic debates.

“We have fundamental economic problems and this is the time to think about it. This is not the time to waste away thinking about what should be the name of the international airport,” he stated.

Dr Domfe also defended the legacy of General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, describing him as a figure who embodied justice, freedom, peace, equity, and democracy.

He insisted that Kotoka’s name should remain attached to Ghana’s main international gateway.

His comments come in response to government plans to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport.

The proposal was announced during a leadership media briefing ahead of the resumption of the Ninth Parliament on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, revealed that the renaming would be formalised through legislation to be introduced by the Minister for Transport.

The move follows years of advocacy from sections of the public and civil society groups, who argue that the airport’s current name honours a figure associated with the 1966 coup that toppled Ghana’s first government, and therefore undermines democratic values.

Ayariga explained that the renaming forms part of broader legislative priorities to be presented when Parliament reconvenes.

The proposal has sparked widespread debate, with opinions divided over its historical, political, and cultural significance.

SA