Ghana’s democracy endured because we ‘compete without destroying’ — Mahama at 69th Independence Day
President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized the nation's unity, democratic maturity and collective responsibility in building a prosperous future.
He described the culture of tolerance and democratic practice as evidence of the maturity and wisdom of the Ghanaian people.
He made the remarks while addressing the nation at the 69th Independence Day celebration at Jubilee House in Accra on Friday, March 6.
"Our democracy has endured because we have learned to compete without destroying, to disagree without hatred, and to transfer power peacefully, which is evidence of the maturity and wisdom of the Ghanaian people."
The celebration, held under the theme “Building Prosperity, Inspiring Hope,” was described by the President as more than a ceremonial observance.
He said the theme represents a national covenant between government and citizens, committing leaders to pursue policies that expand economic opportunity and restore hope for all Ghanaians.
President Mahama noted that his message on Independence Day extended beyond Parliament to every Ghanaian — from farmers in rural communities and traders in urban markets to teachers, health workers, entrepreneurs, and the diaspora. According to him, national development requires the participation of all citizens and a shared belief in Ghana’s potential.
Reflecting on the country’s history, the President paid tribute to the country’s founding father, Kwame Nkrumah, recalling his historic declaration of independence in 1957 and his vision that Ghana’s freedom would contribute to the liberation of Africa.
He said Nkrumah not only led the independence struggle but also instilled a strong sense of national consciousness and continental purpose.
"We cannot speak of Ghana's present without paying homage to our past. Sixty-nine years ago, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah proclaimed to the world that at long last, the battle is ended and that Ghana, our beloved country, is free forever. He also added that the independence of Ghana is meaningless unless it is linked up with the total liberation of the African continent. Nkrumah did not only grant us independence, he awakened within us a sense of consciousness and a continental purpose."
He also acknowledged the contributions of Ghana’s past leaders who have shaped the country’s political and economic trajectory.
Among those he mentioned were Kofi Abrefa Busia, Edward Akufo-Addo, Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kufuor, John Evans Atta Mills, and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
He said each administration, regardless of political affiliation, has contributed to building the Ghana that exists today.
Highlighting Ghana’s democratic progress, President Mahama stressed that the country’s political system has remained stable because citizens and leaders have learned to compete politically without destroying each other, disagree without hatred, and respect peaceful transfers of power.
The President concluded by urging citizens to remain united in pursuing prosperity and national progress, emphasizing that Ghana’s future will depend on the collective effort, resilience, and shared vision of its people.
