Veteran Ghanaian journalist and political commentator Kwesi Pratt Jnr. has taken a swipe at what he describes as the extravagant and insensitive lifestyle of some public officials, questioning their spending habits at a time when many Ghanaians continue to grapple with economic hardship.
In a strongly worded post on X, Pratt said the conduct of certain public office holders is becoming increasingly difficult to comprehend, particularly when they are expected to champion prudent management of public resources and improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
“#WHAAAAAAT?” he began, before questioning why a public official would fly guests to Europe or other international destinations to celebrate a birthday. The behaviour of some public officials is extremely difficult to understand,” he wrote.
Pratt wondered what could justify such lavish celebrations, especially in a country where millions of people continue to face rising living costs, unemployment and poverty.
He further criticised the practice of documenting these celebrations through videos and photographs and posting them on social media, describing the public display of luxury as even more shocking.
“The practice of taking videos and photographs of these usually extravagant parties and posting them on social media is even more shocking,” he stated.
The seasoned journalist also turned his attention to another practice he finds troubling—the decision by some public officials to send their pregnant wives abroad to give birth.
According to Pratt, it is difficult to reconcile such decisions with the public responsibility entrusted to these officials, especially when they are expected to improve healthcare delivery and inspire confidence in Ghana’s institutions.
“What about those public officials who insist that their pregnant wives cannot deliver their babies in Ghana and fly them to the United States of America, Europe, or South Africa?” he asked.
He argued that these actions stand in sharp contrast to the reality confronting many Ghanaians, who depend on local public services because they cannot afford expensive medical care or international travel.
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Pratt stressed that these displays of privilege occur against a backdrop of widespread poverty and economic challenges, despite repeated promises by successive governments to improve the welfare of citizens.
“All these happen against a backdrop of extreme poverty in Ghana which these public officials swear to defeat,” he noted.
He concluded his post by directing a pointed question at the administration of President John Dramani Mahama, asking whether it would distinguish itself by promoting greater modesty, accountability and responsible leadership.
“Can or will the Mahama administration make a difference?” Pratt asked.
His remarks calls on the need for leaders to demonstrate empathy and accountability through their actions. They also reignite a long-running national conversation about ethical leadership, confidence in Ghana’s public institutions, and whether elected and appointed officials should be held to higher standards of personal conduct while serving in public office.