In a landmark address to the nation on the eve of the 2024 Founders’ Day, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo challenged the prevailing narrative that Ghana’s independence was achieved solely through the efforts of one individual, Kwame Nkrumah.
Emphasizing the collective nature of Ghana’s struggle for freedom, the president highlighted the contributions of numerous individuals and organizations that played pivotal roles in securing the country’s independence.
“I speak to you this evening, rejecting completely, the notion that Ghana was founded by one man.
“While Kwame Nkrumah’s contributions to our independence are undeniable, it is important to acknowledge for ourselves that the struggle for our nation’s freedom was a collective effort spanning several generations.”
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the various organizations and movements that played crucial roles in Ghana’s journey to independence.
The President mentioned the formation of the Aborigines Rights Protection Society, the British West African National Congress, and the United Gold Coast Convention, emphasizing that the efforts of countless unsung heroes and the indomitable spirit of the Ghanaian people were instrumental in achieving freedom and independence.
In defending his government’s decision to designate August 4 as Founders’ Day, President Akufo-Addo reiterated the importance of celebrating the collective efforts of those who contributed to the nation’s fight for independence.
“Kwame Nkrumah with his charismatic visionary leadership was undoubtedly a major actor in the final lap of our journey to independence.
“That is why, despite several unfortunate things after independence under his watch, Parliament in 2019, decided to memorialize his date of birth as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, the only Ghanaian to be so honored in our history.”
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
Amendments to the Public Holiday Act
The designation of Founders’ Day as a public holiday is part of a broader initiative led by President Akufo-Addo, who proposed amendments to the Public Holiday Act in 2018. This move was aimed at acknowledging the contributions of various individuals and groups in Ghana’s independence struggle.
“It is essential to recognize that Kwame Nkrumah stood on the shoulders of past leaders.
“The ground laid by the Aborigines Rights Protection, the British West African Nation Congress, the United Gold Coast Convention, and many other organizations and individuals provided the foundation upon which Kwame Nkrumah built the Convention People’s Party (CPP).”
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
The Public Holidays Amendment Bill, 2018, presented by Minister of the Interior Ambrose Dery, resulted in the cancellation of three existing public holidays and the introduction of two new ones.
“The contributions of the leaders before him [Kwame Nkrumah] were instrumental, and it is natural in the continuum of history in shaping the political landscape that facilitated Kwame Nkrumah’s rise to prominence.”
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
The decision to establish these holidays has not been without controversy. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Convention People’s Party (CPP) have expressed their opposition to the amendments. Both parties have indicated that they might consider scrapping the holiday if they come into power.
The NDC and CPP argue that the focus should remain on Kwame Nkrumah, given his prominent role in Ghana’s independence. This perspective highlights the ongoing debate within the country about how best to honor and remember the figures and movements that contributed to Ghana’s freedom.
President Akufo-Addo’s speech ahead of the 2024 Founders’ Day has reignited discussions about the narrative of Ghana’s independence. By emphasizing the collective efforts and contributions of many, he seeks to broaden the historical understanding and recognition of those who played crucial roles in the nation’s journey to freedom.
While Kwame Nkrumah remains a central figure in Ghana’s history, the President’s remarks underscored the importance of acknowledging the diverse and collective struggle that led to the country’s independence.
