US-based Ghanaian law professor, Kwaku Asare, has strongly opposed the idea of erecting statues for sitting presidents or public officers, arguing that such monuments should be reserved for figures whose contributions have stood the test of time.

In a Facebook post, Prof. Asare outlined five key reasons against the practice. He explained that statues for current leaders can appear "self-congratulatory or politically motivated," potentially leading to perceptions of vanity rather than genuine recognition of lasting achievements.

"A statue can symbolically elevate a leader above others, potentially biasing the public’s view before a fair assessment of their term can be made," he said.

Prof. Asare’s comments come in the wake of the commissioning of a statue of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo near the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi-Takoradi, which has sparked widespread controversy.

Many residents questioned the necessity and timing of the statue, pointing out that the President had little to show for his efforts in the area, especially when compared to ongoing infrastructural issues, such as the dualization of the Sekondi-Takoradi road.

Prof. Asare also expressed concern about the use of public funds for such monuments, suggesting it could be seen as a misallocation when there are more pressing issues needing attention.

"This can lead to public discontent if citizens feel resources are better spent elsewhere," he said.

Finally, he noted that Ghanaians historically punish any president who bestows statues or awards upon themselves or their appointees, reinforcing his stance against such acts of self-celebration.