Akufo-Addo sets social media on fire with controversial Founders’ Day speech

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has ignited a heated debate on social media with his recent comments on Ghana’s independence and its key figures.

In a statement made ahead of the 2024 Founders’ Day on August 4, Akufo-Addo rejected the notion that Kwame Nkrumah was the sole founder of Ghana.

Addressing the nation, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged Nkrumah’s significant contributions to Ghana’s independence but emphasized that the struggle for freedom was a collective effort involving various individuals and organizations.

He highlighted the roles played by groups such as the Aborigines Rights Protection Society, the British West African National Congress, and the United Gold Coast Convention, as well as numerous unsung heroes who contributed to the nation’s liberation

Akufo-Addo stated, “While Kwame Nkrumah’s contributions to our independence are undeniable, it is important to acknowledge that the struggle for our nation’s freedom was a collective effort spanning several generations.”

He also noted that despite controversies during Nkrumah’s leadership, the late president’s birthday was officially memorialized as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day in 2019, recognizing his significant impact on Ghana’s history.

The president’s comments have stirred significant discussion online. Supporters of Nkrumah argue that Akufo-Addo’s statement undermines the first president’s role in Ghana’s independence, while others agree with the president’s view of a more inclusive historical perspective.

The debate reflects ongoing tensions around how Ghana’s history and its key figures are remembered and celebrated.