Professor Ransford Gyampo of the University of Ghana has criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s response to the flood victims in the Volta Region as “unpresidential.”
The President’s comments, made during his visit to areas affected by the flood caused by dam spillage, were deemed inappropriate by Gyampo.
He emphasized that in times of disaster, the President’s words should instill confidence in the people rather than dampen their spirits.
President Akufo-Addo, while addressing the flood-affected community of Mepe, assured them of government support and empathized with their difficulties.
He stated that his duty as president extended to all Ghanaians, regardless of their voting choices. Despite the President’s reassurances, Professor Gyampo expressed his dissatisfaction with Akufo-Addo’s demeanor, particularly during his interaction with local leaders.
Gyampo, speaking on the Key Points program on TV3, critiqued the President’s gestures and tone, asserting that a leader’s role during a crisis is to inspire confidence and demonstrate the ability to overcome challenges.
He noted that the President’s manner of speaking was unpresidential and not in line with the dignity of his office and lacked the necessary empathy for the victims.
The flooding has severely impacted various aspects of the affected communities, including education, health, mobility, shelter, and access to food, especially affecting children.
The President’s response, although intended to provide reassurance, has faced scrutiny for its perceived lack of presidential demeanor and empathy during this crisis.