The former Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, has firmly stated that history will ultimately vindicate former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Mercer, the former Sekondi MP, was speaking to Adom News following the destruction of Akufo-Addo’s statue at the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital by unknown persons.
The act has sparked widespread outrage, with many citizens and leaders condemning the incident and calling for the swift identification and prosecution of the perpetrators.
Mercer emphasized that such behavior should never be tolerated, as the statue was not meant to glorify the former president’s personality but rather to honor his significant contributions.
He noted that the decision to erect the statue was made by the people of Sekondi and the Traditional Council as a mark of appreciation for Akufo-Addo’s service.
“The president never sought to honor himself,” Mercer said. “It was the people, along with the Traditional Council, who made the decision to celebrate his achievements and his contributions to the development of our country,” he explained.
Despite the vandalism, Mercer is confident that Akufo-Addo’s legacy will remain intact. “No act of destruction can erase what President Akufo-Addo has done for Ghana,” he asserted. “History will ultimately remember him for his unwavering dedication to Ghana’s growth and progress.”
He further questioned, “If you don’t like it, are you supposed to destroy it in this manner?”
The incident occurred a few days after incumbent MP, Blay Nyameke, announced plans to relocate the statue to Kyebi, Akufo-Addo’s hometown. However, his predecessor has stated that the comment is an unacceptable response, emphasizing that such actions should not be condoned.
“If people hate the former president despite his efforts and contributions, why don’t they destroy the projects he has completed in the area and across the country?” Mercer asked, highlighting the numerous developmental projects the former president championed.
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