Akufo-Addo defends JB Danquah’s legacy, calls for end to name-calling

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called for an end to name-calling and derogatory remarks against the late Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah, emphasising his significant contributions to Ghana’s political development.

His call follows 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.

This prompted 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 compendium of 60 commemorative statements honouring the legacy of JB Danquah.

He highlighted Danquah’s persistent advocacy for the rule of law as a fundamental guarantee of liberty and individual freedom, which remains central to Ghanaian politics today.

“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 recent derogatory remarks made in Parliament about JB Danquah and criticized the invasion of the residence of the former Finance Minister.

He urged Ghanaians to reject hate speech and prioritize national unity over division.

“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 called for an end to malicious attacks on JB Danquah’s legacy, urging Ghanaians to honour his sacrifices by preserving his memory.

“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.