Giving Bawumia a National Award After Election Defeat Sparks Controversy
Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Executive Director of The Ark Foundation and Chairperson of the Civic Forum Initiative, has sparked a heated debate by stating that awarding Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia with the highest national honor after his significant election loss is ridiculing. Dr. Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party's presidential candidate, received the "Order of the Star of Ghana – Officer Award" at the 2024 National Honours event, recognizing his contributions to religious tolerance and national unity.
Dwamena-Aboagye expressed her disappointment on JoyNews' Newsfile, questioning the timing and motivations behind the award. She acknowledged Dr. Bawumia's accomplishments but felt that the award came across as insensitive, considering his recent election loss. "Nobody doubts that Dr. Bawumia is a very accomplished person... But when you give him the highest award when he has just lost massively, I mean, you put him into ridicule," she said.
Dwamena-Aboagye also criticized the president's decision to award his own appointees, despite public criticism. She wondered if there were no deserving individuals with opposing views who could have received the award. "So, is there nobody deserving of an award who expresses an opposite view from yours, even though the person is also a citizen?" she asked.
The controversy surrounding Dr. Bawumia's award has sparked a broader debate about the timing and motivations behind national honors. While some argue that the awards are a genuine recognition of achievements, others see them as a way to reward loyalty and political allegiance.
Dwamena-Aboagye's comments have added fuel to the fire, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in the awarding process. As Ghana continues to navigate its complex political landscape, the controversy surrounding Dr. Bawumia's award serves as a reminder of the importance of fairness, impartiality, and sensitivity in recognizing achievements.
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