In the realm of politics, language is a powerful tool. Language can inspire, unite, or, as in the case of former President Ogwanfunu of Asomdwekrom, raise eyebrows. President Ogwanfunu’s choice of words has often resembled a verbal minefield, making headlines not for their brilliance but for their shocking lack of decorum. From dismissing the legitimate concerns of Asomdwekromanians as “baloney” to labeling protests as “useless lamentations,” his rhetoric has frequently strayed into the territory of insult rather than constructive dialogue.
One of President Ogwanfunu’s more memorable moments was when he famously declared himself a “dead goat,” claiming he was “infected with dead-goat syndrome.” That was what earned him the name “Ogwanfunu”.
Now, that’s a rather unusual way to describe being unresponsive to criticism. We never knew politics could come with such vivid imagery? While he may have aimed for humor, this phrase only managed to alienate many who were genuinely voicing their concerns. As an Asomdwekromanian proverb wisely reminds us, “The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” In this case, it seems President Ogwanfunu might have stirred up more than just metaphorical fires in the very village he was meant to lead.
His comments about the Ashanti people further illustrate a troubling trend. Insulting an entire region does nothing to foster unity; instead, it serves to divide. It is like trying to sell kelewele at a bank meeting, which is a totally misplaced action. As another proverb goes, “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.” Perhaps President Ogwanfunu’s approach was a little too narrow to grasp the broadness of Asomdwekrom’s diversity.
Recently, President Ogwanfunu turned his sharp tongue toward Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, branding him “stupid.” Ah, this classic political insult is a tactic as old as time. But it raises an important question: Does President Ogwanfunu really think that name-calling will win him votes? The political landscape in Asomdwekrom is complex, and wisdom suggests that respectful discourse is key. As the saying goes, “He who burns his tongue must be careful not to spit.” In President Ogwanfunu’s case, he might want to take that advice to heart before he scorches himself further.
Dr. Bawumia, for his part, is known for his intelligence and eloquence. He is like the cool cucumber in a salad of heated debates, unlikely to stoop to Ogwanfunu’s level of insults. Dr. Bawumia’s approach represents the kind of leadership that prioritises solutions over slander. Let’s face it: nobody wants to eat waakye served with sour sauce.
Reflecting on President Ogwanfunu’s past, it is evident that insults didn’t serve him well. His presidency faced economic challenges and public dissatisfaction, ultimately leading to his defeat in the 2016 elections. It is a classic case of “you reap what you sow” – or perhaps in Ogwanfunu’s case, “you reap what you insult.” The electorate craved change, and his approach did little to build the necessary bridges. A wise leader understands that “the mouth that eats does not talk.” Instead of engaging in empty rhetoric, effective leaders focus on actions that yield results, and maybe a few compliments to sweeten the pot.
The current political climate in Asomdwekrom is fraught with issues that demand thoughtful discussion and innovative solutions. Citizens are calling for better living conditions and governance, and leaders must rise to the occasion. Resorting to insults is like trying to catch fish with a net full of holes, which is ineffective and messy. President Ogwanfunu should remember the proverb, “A bird does not change its feathers because the weather is bad,” which underscores that true leadership requires consistency and a commitment to respectful engagement, even when the skies are cloudy.
I conclude this piece by saying the foul-mouthed nature of former President Mahama is not merely a reflection of poor judgment; it undermines the seriousness of political discourse. While political rivalry is as inevitable as a rainy season in Asomdwekrom, the language used should reflect a commitment to the betterment of the nation. President Ogwanfunu’s past should serve as a cautionary tale: insults may provide a momentary thrill, but they build no foundation for success.
As Asomdwekrom moves forward, it is essential for its leaders to choose their words wisely, for “The way the wind blows, the tree bends.” And in this political landscape, bending toward respect and dignity is not just wise but also very necessary for the future of the nation.
President Ogwanfunu, instead of throwing insults around like toffees, why not try engaging in respectful dialogues? After all, a good conversation is like a hearty bowl of jollof; it is much more satisfying and likely to win you more fans than just slinging words like a toddler in a tantrum!
See you next week for another interesting konkonsa, Deo volente!