Ghana’s Parliament recently commemorated the 59th anniversary of the 1966 coup d’état that ousted Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the nation’s founding Prime Minister and President. This event, a pivotal moment in Ghanaian history, brought an end to Nkrumah’s socialist-leaning government and ushered in a period of military rule. Led by figures like Colonel E.K. Kotoka, Major A. A. Afrifa, Lieutenant General (retired) J. A. Ankrah, and Police Inspector General J.W.K. Harlley, the coup dramatically altered the trajectory of the nation, sparking debate and reflection that continues to this day. Parliament’s commemoration provided a platform for diverse perspectives on Nkrumah’s legacy, the circumstances of his overthrow, and the implications for Ghana’s subsequent political development.
Richmond Kofi Edem Kpotoso, MP for Ho Central, delivered a statement paying homage to Dr. Nkrumah’s vision for Ghana’s development and industrialization. Kpotoso characterized the coup as a calculated assault on Ghana’s sovereignty, progress, and Nkrumah’s forward-thinking vision. He emphasized Nkrumah’s stature not only as a Ghanaian leader but also as a pan-African visionary and global statesman who championed the liberation of the African continent from colonial rule. Ghana’s achievement of independence under Nkrumah’s leadership served as a catalyst for other liberation movements across Africa. Kpotoso argued that Nkrumah’s pursuit of economic independence, the establishment of state-owned industries, and his ambition for a unified African continent posed a threat to powerful global interests, leading to external interference in Ghana’s affairs and ultimately contributing to the coup.
Kingsley Nyarko, MP for Kwadaso, acknowledged Nkrumah’s undeniable contributions to Ghana and Africa. However, he highlighted the collaborative nature of the independence struggle, asserting that Nkrumah’s success was facilitated by the support of other key individuals who deserved recognition. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the collective effort and contributions of various figures in the fight for independence and self-governance. Nyarko cautioned against diminishing the roles of others while celebrating Nkrumah’s achievements, advocating for a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the historical context.
Dr. Mutala Mohammed, MP for Tamale Central and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, condemned the overthrow of Dr. Nkrumah, a democratically elected president, as a criminal and unjustifiable act. He argued that dissatisfaction with a leader’s decisions does not legitimize the disruption of democratic processes. Dr. Mohammed pointed to evidence suggesting external influence in the coup, asserting that it was orchestrated by forces seeking to maintain control over Ghana and prevent Nkrumah’s pursuit of true independence and self-determination. He lamented the susceptibility of some Ghanaians to external influences that undermined the nation’s sovereignty.
The parliamentary commemoration highlighted the complexities of Nkrumah’s legacy and the enduring controversies surrounding his overthrow. While some lauded his transformative vision and pan-Africanist ideals, others emphasized the collaborative nature of the independence struggle and the importance of recognizing the contributions of other key figures. The debate also revolved around the legitimacy of the coup, with some condemning it as a criminal act fueled by external interference, while others sought to contextualize it within the broader political landscape of the time.
The 59th anniversary commemoration served as a reminder of the enduring significance of this historical event in shaping Ghana’s political trajectory. The diverse perspectives expressed within Parliament reflect the ongoing dialogue and reflection on Nkrumah’s leadership, the circumstances of his removal from power, and the long-term impact on Ghana’s political development. The coup remains a pivotal moment in Ghanaian history, prompting continued debate about its causes, consequences, and the lessons to be learned for the future of democracy in Ghana and across the African continent.
