Speaking on Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV, Pratt took aim at Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and former Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, whose heated exchanges over the matter have dominated public discourse in recent days.
In a blunt and widely circulated remark, Pratt questioned the tone and maturity of their engagement, asking pointedly, “You talk too much—are you wee smokers?”
His comment, though sharp, reflected deep frustration with what he described as empty rhetoric replacing thoughtful debate.
According to Pratt, the proposal to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport is not a trivial matter that should be reduced to shouting matches and partisan posturing.
He stressed that the issue is deeply rooted in Ghana’s history and identity, particularly the legacy of Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, a key figure in the country’s political past.
Such a subject, he argued, demands careful historical reflection, intellectual honesty, and national maturity.
Instead, Pratt lamented that the debate has been stripped of substance and turned into a spectacle aimed at scoring political points and energizing party supporters.
In his view, both sides appear more interested in public performance than in educating Ghanaians about the historical, cultural, and symbolic implications of the proposed name change.
He warned that this approach comes at a cost. When senior lawmakers engage in what he described as childish and confrontational behavior, public confidence in Parliament is eroded.
He warned that this approach comes at a cost. When senior lawmakers engage in what he described as childish and confrontational behavior, public confidence in Parliament is eroded.
Pratt noted that while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) may each see short-term political gains, the nation ultimately loses when its leaders fail to model seriousness and restraint.
Pratt also questioned priorities, arguing that Ghana faces far more urgent challenges than verbal battles over symbolism.
Pratt also questioned priorities, arguing that Ghana faces far more urgent challenges than verbal battles over symbolism.
He cited economic hardship, youth unemployment, education, healthcare, and infrastructure as issues that deserve sustained parliamentary attention rather than being overshadowed by political drama.
Beyond politicians, Pratt urged the media and civil society to resist amplifying sensationalism. He called for a higher standard of public discourse—one grounded in facts, historical context, and long-term national interest rather than insults and performative outrage.
Beyond politicians, Pratt urged the media and civil society to resist amplifying sensationalism. He called for a higher standard of public discourse—one grounded in facts, historical context, and long-term national interest rather than insults and performative outrage.