Chairman of the dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining and renowned statesman, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has expressed deep concern over the persistent leadership crisis facing Ghana.
Speaking on the KeyPoints with Alfred Ocansey on Saturday, November 30, 2024, he emphasized the need for leaders who are dedicated to the welfare of the nation and its future generations, highlighting key issues such as corruption, loss of hope among the youth, and environmental degradation amongst other concerns.
Addressing the lack of progress in solving Ghana’s leadership challenges, he said, “leadership is about meeting the basic needs of a population—food, shelter, clothing, health, and defense—and preparing for future challenges like climate change and globalization. Unfortunately, we lack leaders who are dedicated, focused, and willing to sacrifice for the people.”
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng acknowledged growing disillusionment among Ghanaian youth, describing it as a justified sentiment.
He noted the exodus of skilled professionals, including doctors and nurses, as evidence of the dwindling hope in the country’s systems.
“During my time at the University of Ghana, resources and facilities were abundant. Today, instead of improving these systems, we’ve commercialized them, prioritizing revenue over quality education and student welfare,” he lamented.
The former minister did not mince words about Ghana’s corruption issues.
“Anyone who claims we are winning the fight against corruption is either misinformed or not serious,” he stated, adding that corruption remains a major barrier to development and progress in the country.
Prof. Frimpong-Boateng also highlighted environmental degradation as a critical concern, warning of its long-term consequences.
“We are destroying our water bodies, farmlands, and forests. If this continues, the hunger and destruction that will follow will be unprecedented,” he said, urging immediate and decisive action to address illegal mining and preserve natural resources.
Drawing inspiration from historical examples, he pointed to the United States Declaration of Independence and leaders like Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew as models of visionary leadership.
“Leadership should be about sacrifice and service—not personal gain. Leaders must prioritize the survival and prosperity of the nation over themselves and their families,” he added.
With Ghana’s elections on the horizon, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng called for a shift in focus toward selecting leaders of integrity and character.
He urged policymakers and citizens to prioritize accountability, environmental preservation, and long-term national planning.
As the nation grapples with challenges on multiple fronts, his message serves as a reminder that transformative leadership remains central to addressing Ghana’s pressing issues and restoring hope among its people.
