Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo may face legal sanctions after using Ghana’s national coat of arms in a private letter addressing the public. In the letter, the former president urged Ghanaians to disregard reports suggesting a scheme to postpone the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) upcoming Delegates Conference — but the use of the state emblem has triggered legal and constitutional scrutiny.
Under National Emblems (Control of Display) Act, 1977 (Act 380), it is an offence to use the coat of arms, national flag, or other national symbols without appropriate authorization.
Section 3 of Act 380 clearly states:
“Any person who uses or continues to use a national emblem or coat of arms in contravention of this Act commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine or to imprisonment or to both.”
This provision makes it clear that no individual, regardless of their status or former position, is above the law when it comes to the misuse of national symbols. If found guilty, former President Akufo-Addo could be fined, imprisoned, or subjected to both penalties.
Legal and Reputational Implications
Experts argue that using a national emblem such as the coat of arms in private correspondence — particularly one not sanctioned by the state — constitutes a breach of the law and undermines the sanctity of Ghana’s sovereign symbols. Private letters, especially those addressing partisan or political issues, are not official state documents and must not bear such national symbols.
Ghanapoliticsonline have therefore called for the following actions:
Immediate legal action – The former president should be investigated and, if found culpable, prosecuted in accordance with Act 380.
A formal cease and desist order – The government or appropriate authorities should caution him to refrain from using state symbols in unofficial communications.
Reputational accountability – Misuse of national emblems could damage the former president’s reputation, as it may be perceived as an attempt to confer unwarranted authority on a personal or partisan message.
Constitutional Limits on Former Presidents
While former presidents are accorded certain privileges under Ghanaian law, those privileges do not extend to the unauthorized use of official state symbols. The Constitution of Ghana, 1992, vests executive authority in the sitting president, meaning the use of state emblems in an official capacity must be reserved for current government communications.
Moreover, Article 57(6) of the Constitution provides that:
“A person who has held the office of President shall not, while he continues to receive the facilities, privileges and benefits conferred by this article, hold any other office of profit or emolument, whether private or public.”
This reinforces the idea that a former president must not act in ways that blur the lines between official state business and private or partisan activity.
Conclusion
The matter raises serious questions about accountability, legality, and the protection of Ghana’s national identity. Regardless of status or legacy, all citizens — including former presidents — must adhere to the laws governing the use of national symbols. The public awaits further action from the Attorney General or relevant law enforcement bodies on this potentially precedent-setting case.
