Akufo-Addo, Okyehene Defends JB Danquah's Legacy Amid Controversy
Accra, Ghana - 10 March, 2025 - Former Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has joined a growing chorus of voices condemning recent derogatory remarks made against the late Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah, a prominent figure in Ghana's political history.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of Danquah's passing, Akufo-Addo praised Danquah's commitment to the rule of law and individual freedom, values that he said remain essential to Ghana's democracy today.
The controversy surrounding Danquah's legacy was sparked by allegations that Member of Parliament for Tamale central, Murtal Mohammed had referred to Danquah as a "traitor" and a "CIA operative" during a recent parliamentary session.
The remarks have been widely criticized, with many calling for greater respect and recognition of Danquah's contributions to Ghana's development.
“The persistent call for the rule of law to be entrenched in our body politic is the ultimate guarantee of liberty and individual freedom. Today, it stands as a central feature of Ghanaian politics, which we must never renounce.
“Despite JB Danquah’s immense contributions to Ghana’s development, his name continues to be embroiled in needless controversy, both in death as in life,” Akufo-Addo stated.
Other leaders, including the Member of Parliament for Effutu and Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, also condemned the malicious attacks on Danquah's legacy, urging Ghanaians to prioritize national unity and respect for the country's heroes.
Speaking on behalf of the Minority Caucus, Afenyo-Markin emphasized the need to maintain respect and dignity in political discourse.
“Since the 1940s, no group of people has suffered a smear campaign as enduring as that against Daddy Danquah and his people. These are individuals who have contributed immensely to public service and the betterment of our nation, yet they have been maligned beyond measure for their pure and patriotic sacrifices.
“Let us leave here today with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that democracy is not a gift handed down through history but a perpetual struggle one we must embrace with courage and resolve.
“Let us denounce hate campaigns, regardless of their targets, and put the love and dignity of Ghana and Africa above all differences. What unites us is far greater than the forces seeking to divide and weaken us,” Afenyo-Markin remarked.
The Overlord of Akyem Abuakwa State, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, also made a passionate appeal to Ghanaians to safeguard the legacy of JB Danquah from those seeking to tarnish his reputation.
“Looking at the immense sacrifices he made for us, we have done little to honour him in return. Some individuals continue to spread malice, mischief, and willful ignorance to defame him, but we must not allow that to happen. The next generation must hear of JB Danquah’s sacrifices for Ghana,” he stated.
Source: Lead News Online
