In a sharp and comprehensive critique, Franklin Cudjoe, Founding President of the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education has expressed strong disapproval of the decision by the management of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) to give an honorary doctorate to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Mr Cudjoe, in his critique, decried the numerous challenges the nation is grappling with, including significant socio-economic challenges and political turmoil, questioning the priorities of the New Patriotic Party administration.
He contended that the pursuit of ceremonial accolades, such as the honorary doctorate, is out of touch with the urgent needs of the country.
“Frankly, we need to rise above partisan, ethnic, and divisive actions and words. The same stupidity encouraged some to ban July 1 as our Republic Day and some other name changes. Having said that, what at all in Cathedral’s name does Nana Addo want an Honorary doctorate for? A coronation?”.
Franklin Cudjoe, Founding President IMANI Centre for Policy and Education
Mr Cudjoe, thus emphasized the need for leadership that transcends superficial achievements and focuses on substantive national issues.
The IMANI Centre for Policy and Education’s Chief Executive Officer further highlighted several critical areas where he believes the government’s attention is desperately needed.
He questioned the practical benefits of the honorary doctorate, asking, whether the award of the honorary doctorate to President Akufo-Addo by the University of Health and Allied Sciences would have any substantial benefit to the people of Ghana, particularly the Volta Region.
Ghana Facing Multifaceted Problems
Mr Cudjoe pointed out the dire state of infrastructure, particularly the dangerous roads in the Volta Region, and the ongoing political and legal issues surrounding the representation of the people of Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi (SALL) in Parliament.
He also addressed the economic challenges facing the country, including high inflation, an unstable exchange rate, and the heavy tax burden on citizens.
Furthermore, he criticized the government’s handling of the illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) issue, which continues to devastate the environment and local communities.
“Will this Award complete the dangerous roads in the Volta Region? Will it solve the SALL debacle? Will it reduce inflation and the exchange rate? Will it tear down the highest tax wall erected by any government in a generation? Will it end the forgotten galamsey battle?”
Franklin Cudjoe, Founding President IMANI Centre for Policy and Education
Additionally, the Founding President of the renowned and leading think-tank expressed concerns over the plight of the nearly 2 million youth who are unemployed and living in poverty.
He advocated for the revival of domestic industries to provide jobs and improve living standards.
“They need proper domestic industry to at least keep them alive on minimum wage. What about resuscitating a jute-making industry so we use local materials to make sacks to bag our cocoa instead of spending nearly $60m a year importing cocoa bagging sacks?”.
Franklin Cudjoe, Founding President IMANI Centre for Policy and Education
He also contended that employing the youth in basic data collection for property valuation and realistic property taxes could also be a viable solution to both unemployment and revenue generation.
Mr Cudjoe’s critique extended to the legislative branch of government, where he condemned the political posturing in Parliament over critical issues such as the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) on cement regulations and the rushed approval of the Lithium agreement.
He strongly opined that the standoff in Parliament with deep political posturing over important matters such as the L.I. on cement regulations and the needless improper “rush to pummel the Lithium agreement must end”.
Mr Cudjoe also called on parliamentarians to uphold principles of pragmatism, honor, and integrity in public office.
In his concluding remarks, Mr Cudjoe directly urged President Akufo-Addo to decline the honorary award and redirect his focus toward addressing the pressing issues facing the country.
“Mr. President, don’t go for the Honorary Award from the University of Health and Allied Sciences!” Mr Cudjoe pleaded, stressing the frustration and urgency felt by many Ghanaians.
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