The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has strongly weighed into the heated national conversation over the proposed renaming of Kotoka International Airport, insisting that state monuments, public institutions and national landmarks should only be named after individuals whose contributions reflect true patriotism and democratic values.
CPP National Communication Director Osei Kofi Acquah condemned talk around the airport’s name change, saying some public figures supporting renaming discussions lacked genuine patriotic credentials. He emphasised that honours such as naming rights should be reserved for individuals widely recognised as national heroes and defenders of democratic principles.
The party’s critique comes amid government plans — spearheaded by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga — to rename the airport to Accra International Airport, aligning the landmark more closely with the city’s identity and its role as Ghana’s primary gateway.
Mr. Acquah’s remarks also touched on Ghana’s political history, where he defended the legitimacy of the first republic under Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and critiqued narratives that justify military interventions in governance. He urged the nation to carefully consider the individuals it chooses to honour in public spaces, cautioning against glorifying figures associated with coups and anti-democratic actions.
The CPP’s stance adds a partisan dimension to a broader public debate, with various voices weighing in on both the symbolic and practical implications of renaming the airport, including concerns over national identity, history, and financial costs.
As discussions continue, the proposal’s future will hinge on parliamentary processes and broader public engagement over how Ghana balances historical recognition with contemporary national values.
