Is the Okyehene scaring the NPP’s Akufo-Addo?

By Dr. Michael J.K. Bokor

Sunday, January 10, 2016

Folks, it is true that our 1992 Constitution debars traditional leaders from doing partisan politics; but some have brazenly done so, damn the consequences.

The Okyehene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, is known for his utterances that some may construe or misconstrue as a reflection of his political interests. But he hasn't openly declared his support for any of the politicians or political parties. He says whatever he wants to say. When President Mahama made a comment about "galamsey" in the Abuakwa area, he took umbrage and made his views known. Some might think that he was against President Mahama at that point. He has also criticized government in many areas.

Over the past week, he has come out to say what some may view with interest or reservation, depending on how they understand it vis-a-vis their own political interests. He has asked Ghanaians to stop insulting President Mahama, which is clearly a word of wisdom.

Now, he has added more to it, which will certainly not go down well with the anti-Mahama elements, especially his own "subject" (Akufo-Addo) who is constantly leading the NPP's attacks on President Mahama. Hear him, loud and clear:

"The Okyehene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin has urged Ghanaians to back President John Mahama's drive to transform the Ghanaian economy. According to Osagyefo, the situation where some Ghanaians discredit government through the casting of aspersions and insinuations is inappropriate.

"We are all Ghanaians and one people, we should be law abiding and ensure that we do away with issues that will divide the country. We must all support President Mahama's quest of transforming Ghana from its state to a better one,” he stated.

Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin was speaking at 5th anniversary of the installation of Effiduasehene, Okoawia Dwumoh Baabu IV in Koforidua in the eastern region. (See http://www.myjoyonline.com/politics/2016/January-8th/okyehene-lets-support-mahama-to-transform-ghana.php#sthash.zKIaodBq.dpuf).

MY COMMENTS

Is the Okyehene not saying what Akufo-Addo hates to hear, more so from his own backyard? It is beyond interesting for the Okyehene to note that President Mahama is making efforts to "transform the Ghanaian economy" while Akufo-Addo is leading the NPP pack to say otherwise. All of those freely insulting President Mahama as “incompetent” think that he is not transforming the economy or the country, which the Okyehene’s stance contradicts. And he is not only talking about President Mahama’s efforts at transforming the economy but also at transforming Ghana!! What has the Okyehene seen that those insulting President Mahama haven't?

Supporting President Mahama, as urged by the Okyehene, means turning away from the rogue politics of the NPP and other detractors of President Mahama; not so? Coming from the Okyehene, this urge is strong and sends a clear signal.

Is the Okyehene seeing what Akufo-Addo isn't seeing about the competence of President Mahama, even as he makes strenuous efforts to solve the country's problems? And Akufo-Addo hails from Abuakwa, where the Okyehene reigns supreme. Interesting, folks!!

It is a truism that Ghanaians are "difficult people" as claimed by the late Kutu Acheampong. Voting for a politician to rule the country means supporting him in his endeavours. Even those who might not have voted him into office should know that once favoured by the majority of the voters, such a person becomes the "fait accompli" who must be supported to succeed. Turning against him won't solve any problem; it will rather create needless tension, as is the case now.

Interestingly, those not supporting the President are even not able to tell Ghanaians how they will do things differently if put in office. They are more invested in blowing hot air than in giving the people anything worthwhile. So, what the Okyehene has said is enough food-for-thought.

Ghanaians need to change their mindset and attitude(s) so whoever is put in office can be fully supported to help solve problems. Otherwise, we will be running around in circles, wasting energy and resources only to worsen the country's problems. That is the essence of the Okyehene's admonition. Good job, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin!!

I shall return…

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