Ghana’s former Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo, has come under criticism from NPP stalwart Gabby Otchere-Darko for her actions in supporting pensioners in their protest at the Finance Ministry last Friday. The pensioners were demanding exemption from the government’s investment program for retirees.
In a tweet, Gabby Otchere-Darko stated that Akuffo “erred big time” in her understanding of the issues. He said, “Rather than asking the Government for exemption at this late hour, why did she simply not ‘exempt herself from exchanging her original bond for the new one.'”
Gabby pointed out that the pensioners were given the option not to sign up for the program, and therefore, there was no need for the demonstration. He said, “Why picket over something you don’t like (the improved offer) when you have the right not to sign up?” He added, “I struggle to get her emotional outburst over exemption.”
“Why picket over something you don’t like (the improved offer) when you have the right not to sign up?”
Gabby Otchere-Darko
Gabby also expressed his hope that Akuffo would not continue to protest on the same issue once the deadline to sign up has passed. He said, “I hope she won’t volunteer to picket tomorrow and on the same issue when the time to sign up has expired.”
The controversy sparked by Mrs. Akuffo’s actions has sparked a debate about the role of former public officials in social and political activism. Some have argued that her actions were commendable, given her reputation and the cause she was supporting. However, others have stated that she erred in her basic appreciation of the issues.
Regardless of the views expressed, it is clear that Mrs. Akuffo’s actions have generated a significant amount of discussion and attention. As the debate continues, it will be interesting to see how her actions are perceived in the coming days and what impact they may have on the broader political and social landscape in Ghana.
