Africa would be better if all presidents were like 'selfless' Akufo-Addo – Casely Hayford

Senior member of pressure group, Occupy Ghana and Social commentator, Sydney Casely Hayford, has lauded Ghana’s President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for being one of the few “selfless” presidents in Africa.

Speaking on the role of leaders in ensuring development in their respective countries, Mr. Casely Hayford said that most African Presidents govern their countries with less of the country’s development in mind and more of their personal interests at the forefront.

He however singled out President Akufo-Addo as being an exception with his selfless leadership prowess adding that the country and Africa at large will be better with Presidents with similar leadership skills.

“Our heads of state always think that the country is about them and not about the people. Hopefully, and luckily, maybe we (in Ghana) have found a president who is not thinking that way. And if he can set a precedent, we will be fine”, he stated.

Citing other African countries whose leaders are making strides in their various countries, Casely Hayford mentioned Liberia, and Ivory Coast among other countries.

“In Liberia, Johnson Sirleaf has done quite well after taking over a completely ravished country. She seems to have got somewhere with the country..In the Gambia, we finally got rid of Jammeh… and we have put somebody there who seems to be doing quite well. I admire what Ouattara is doing in Ivory Coast”, he added.

Sydney Casely Hayford was the Guest Speaker at the seminar themed; "The Economic and Political Rise of Africa” which saw several students from various tertiary institutions and corporate workers present.

The event organized by the Governance and Security Group of Africa (CSG Africa) came off on Saturday July 8 at the African Regent Hotel in Accra.