President Akufo-Addo calls for end to attacks on JB Danquah’s legacy

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged Ghanaians to put an end to derogatory remarks and historical distortions about the late Dr Joseph Boakye Danquah, stressing his pivotal role in Ghana’s political development.

His comments come in response to allegations that Tamale Central MP, Murtala Mohammed, referred to Dr J.B. Danquah as a “traitor” and a “CIA operative” during parliamentary proceedings on February 4, 2025. 

The remarks have sparked controversy, leading the Coalition for Youth Development in Okyeman to petition the Speaker of Parliament on March 7.

Speaking at the 60th Anniversary Remembrance Service at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Kyebi on Sunday, March 9, Akufo-Addo launched a collection of 60 commemorative statements honouring JB Danquah’s contributions to Ghana’s democracy. He emphasised that Danquah’s advocacy for the rule of law remains a cornerstone of the country’s governance.

“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.

Delivering a speech on behalf of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, the Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, condemned the recent derogatory remarks made in Parliament and criticised the invasion of the former Finance Minister’s residence. He called for an end to hate speech and urged Ghanaians to prioritise unity.

“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 declared.

The Overlord of Akyem Abuakwa State, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, also weighed in, calling on Ghanaians to honour JB Danquah’s memory rather than engage in efforts 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 wilful 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.