Politics of Thursday, 2 May 2024

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Akufo-Addo’s disrespect of chiefs won’t be tolerated – Haruna Iddrisu

Haruna Iddrisu addressing the gathering at Ketu North Haruna Iddrisu addressing the gathering at Ketu North

Tamale South MP, Haruna Iddrisu, has criticised President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, accusing him of showing disrespect towards traditional leaders in the country.

Iddrisu claimed that President Akufo-Addo has assumed an attitude of superiority, demanding that chiefs stand up before greeting him.

During a walk organised by members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ketu North constituency on Wednesday, May 1, the former Minority Leader expressed his concerns about the president's behaviour, suggesting that Ghanaians should protest against it.

He further asserted that such levels of disrespect towards chiefs have never been witnessed in Ghana's history.

Haruna Iddrisu's remarks come amid growing discontent over what some perceive as President Akufo-Addo's disregard for traditional protocols and authorities.

"Akufo-Addo has turned himself into king of kings, asking chiefs to stand up before greeting him. The utter disrespect to our traditional leaders will not be tolerated.

"If there is any time in our history when change is ever necessary, that time is now. If there is any time in our history when John Mahama must be president to save the nation, then it’s now," he said.

President Akufo-Addo has been seen on multiple occasions openly instructing chiefs to rise and greet him at events.

This development has triggered conversations surrounding the dynamics of state and traditional protocols.

On the back of similar sentiments, the Ministry of Chieftaincy has released a statement indicating that the tradition of showing respect for authority, including the request for chiefs to stand when greeting the president at public events is a testament to Ghana’s heritage and traditions.