Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called for an end to name-calling and derogatory remarks directed at the late Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah, emphasizing his pivotal role in Ghana’s political development.
Akufo-Addo’s call comes in response to allegations that Tamale Central MP, Murtala Mohammed, described Dr. Danquah as a “traitor” and a “CIA operative” during parliamentary proceedings on February 4, 2025.
The remarks have since sparked widespread reactions, prompting the Coalition for Youth Development in Okyeman to petition the Speaker of Parliament on March 7, seeking redress over the comments.
Speaking at the 60th Anniversary Remembrance Service held at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Kyebi on Sunday, March 9, Akufo-Addo unveiled a compendium of 60 commemorative statements honouring JB Danquah’s legacy.
He highlighted Danquah’s unwavering advocacy for the rule of law and individual freedoms, which he described as the foundation of Ghana’s political stability.
“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,” Akufo-Addo stated.
He lamented the ongoing controversies surrounding Danquah’s legacy, adding, “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.”
Delivering a speech on behalf of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin condemned the recent remarks made against JB Danquah, stressing the need for national unity.
He also criticized the invasion of the former Finance Minister's residence, describing it as an affront to democratic values.
“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,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
He urged Ghanaians to reject hate speech and divisive rhetoric, adding, “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.”
The Overlord of Akyem Abuakwa State, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, also weighed in on the matter, calling for an end to the vilification of JB Danquah’s legacy.
“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 said.
The event concluded with renewed calls for unity and respect for Ghana’s political heritage, with speakers underscoring JB Danquah’s enduring impact on the nation’s democratic evolution.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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