The Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, has expressed concerns over the inclusion of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta in the funeral brochure of the late Dr. Isaac Akuetteh Bampoe Addo, former head of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG). Koomson believes it was inappropriate for Ofori-Atta, who has been declared a fugitive by Ghanaian authorities, to pay tribute to the late labour leader.
Ofori-Atta paid a glowing tribute to Dr. Bampoe Addo during his funeral service at the State House forecourt in Accra on November 7, 2026. He affectionately described Dr. Bampoe Addo as the “Lion King” due to his commanding presence, courage, and leadership. Ofori-Atta praised Dr. Bampoe Addo as a bold and formidable negotiator who consistently defended workers' and civil servants' interests.
Dr. Bampoe Addo's service and commitment to Ghana's economic recovery were highlighted by Ofori-Atta, who recalled their engagements during difficult economic moments, including the COVID-19 pandemic and negotiations surrounding the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). Ofori-Atta suggested that Dr. Bampoe Addo deserved a personal “Purple Heart” for his service and called on the nation to recognise and honour him posthumously.
However, Abraham Koomson questioned the decision to give Ofori-Atta recognition at the funeral, arguing that it sends the wrong message amid calls for his arrest and accountability over allegations of economic mismanagement. Koomson's comments reflect concerns that Ofori-Atta's presence at the funeral may undermine efforts to hold him accountable for his actions as Finance Minister.
The Ghanaian authorities have declared Ofori-Atta a fugitive, and there are ongoing demands for his return to the country to answer questions over his stewardship of the economy. Koomson's criticism highlights the complexities of balancing respect for the deceased with the need for accountability and transparency in public life.
Dr. Isaac Akuetteh Bampoe Addo's funeral service was held at the State House forecourt in Accra, a testament to his stature and contributions to Ghana's labour sector. The event brought together various stakeholders, including government officials, labour leaders, and civil servants, to pay their respects to the late CLOGSAG head.
The controversy surrounding Ofori-Atta's tribute to Dr. Bampoe Addo underscores the challenges of navigating complex public issues, where personal and professional relationships intersect with demands for accountability and transparency. As Ghana continues to grapple with economic challenges, the debate over Ofori-Atta's role and accountability is likely to remain a contentious issue.
Key points
- Abraham Koomson criticizes Ken Ofori-Atta's inclusion in Dr. Isaac Akuetteh Bampoe Addo's funeral brochure amid his fugitive status.
