Ghanaians want aid, now not airport renaming – Kofi Kapito – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

Ghanaians are calling for practical solutions to everyday challenges rather than symbolic gestures like renaming Kotoka International Airport, according to Kofi Kapito, CEO of the Consumer Protection Agency (CPA). His remarks follow the government’s announcement to rename the airport as Accra International Airport. Kapito argues that such changes distract from more urgent issues, including consumer rights, healthcare, and economic stability. This article explores his concerns, the broader context, and what Ghanaians truly need from their leaders.

Key Points

Background

The debate over renaming Kotoka International Airport emerged after Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga announced plans to change its name to Accra International Airport. This move has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it is an unnecessary expense at a time when Ghana faces pressing socio-economic challenges. Kofi Kapito, a prominent consumer rights advocate, has been vocal in opposing the renaming, emphasizing that the government should focus on issues that directly impact citizens’ lives.

Kapito’s stance is rooted in his long-standing advocacy for consumer protection. The Consumer Protection Bill, which aims to safeguard the rights of consumers in Ghana, has been pending in Parliament for years. Despite its importance, successive governments have failed to prioritize its passage. Kapito believes that renaming the airport is a symbolic gesture that diverts attention and resources from more critical matters.

Analysis

The Cost of Renaming

One of Kapito’s primary concerns is the financial burden associated with renaming Kotoka International Airport. He argues that changing the name would require updating signage, documents, and other materials across the country, costing taxpayers millions of cedis. This expense, he contends, is unjustifiable when Ghanaians are grappling with issues like inadequate healthcare, high living costs, and lack of consumer protection.

Healthcare Crisis

Kapito highlights the dire state of public hospitals in Ghana, citing examples from Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, 37 Military Hospital, and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. He reports that basic amenities, such as toilets, have been privatized, forcing patients and visitors to pay for their use. For instance, pregnant women in maternity wards are charged 50 pesewas to use the toilet, with an additional 10 pesewas for toilet paper. These conditions, he argues, are unacceptable in a country that prides itself on providing accessible healthcare.

Consumer Protection

The stalled Consumer Protection Bill is another focal point of Kapito’s criticism. He questions why Parliament has not prioritized legislation that would protect consumers from exploitation and unfair practices. Kapito singles out Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga for failing to push the bill forward, despite his influential position. He believes that consumer rights should be a top priority, as they directly affect the daily lives of Ghanaians.

Partisan Politics

Kapito urges Ghanaians to look beyond partisan politics and focus on issues that unite them. He acknowledges positive developments under the current administration, such as lower fuel prices and inflation control, but stresses that these should not overshadow the need for systemic reforms. By encouraging citizens to think like Ghanaians rather than as members of political parties, Kapito hopes to foster a more collaborative approach to addressing national challenges.

Practical Advice

For Policymakers

• Prioritize the passage of the Consumer Protection Bill to safeguard citizens’ rights.
• Address the deteriorating conditions in public hospitals by investing in infrastructure and services.
• Focus on economic policies that directly benefit citizens, such as reducing the cost of living and improving access to essential services.

For Citizens

• Engage with local representatives to advocate for consumer protection and healthcare reforms.
• Stay informed about national issues and participate in public discourse to hold leaders accountable.
• Support initiatives that promote unity and collaboration across political divides.

FAQ

Conclusion

Kofi Kapito’s call for prioritizing practical solutions over symbolic gestures resonates with many Ghanaians who are grappling with everyday challenges. By focusing on issues like consumer protection, healthcare, and economic stability, the government can address the real needs of its citizens. Kapito’s message is clear: Ghanaians want tangible improvements in their lives, not just changes in names. It is time for leaders to listen and act accordingly.