‘Useless, waste of taxpayers’ money’ – Old Tafo MP slams gov’t over KIA renaming

The Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has strongly criticised the government’s decision to rename Kotoka International Airport, describing the move as unnecessary and a waste of public funds.

Reacting to the announcement by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga that government intends to change the name of Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport, the opposition lawmaker questioned the priority of the decision at a time of economic pressure.

He said:

ALSO READ: Kotoka International Airport to be renamed Accra International Airport – Majority Leader

According to the Old Tafo MP, the proposed renaming exercise would impose avoidable financial costs on the state, including rebranding signage, official documents, aviation materials and international branding associated with the airport.

He further argued that the government’s focus was misplaced, citing challenges in the public sector that, in his view, required urgent attention.

ALSO READ: Who Will Join Dr Bawumia in 2028? NAPO, Bryan, Ken or a Dark Horse?

He added:

The comments come amid renewed national debate over the future of Ghana’s main international airport. Kotoka International Airport was originally opened in 1958 as Accra International Airport before being renamed in 1969 in honour of Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, a key figure in the 1966 coup that overthrew Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

ALSO READ: Meet Prof. Kofi Allotey: The First Ghanaian to Earn a PhD in Mathematical Sciences

Meanwhile, the Minister for Transport is expected to lay a bill before Parliament to formalise the proposed renaming in the coming weeks.