Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has condemned the “revisionist” approach taken by the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) government in altering the historical narrative of Ghana’s independence.
Speaking during his ongoing tour of the Western Region, Mahama expressed his concern that, over the past eight years under the NPP, the history of the country has been reshaped in a way that downplays the monumental role of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, in the independence struggle.
Mahama referenced a previous appearance in the region, marking Dr. Nkrumah’s birthday on 21st September, where he vowed that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would rectify what he called the “revisionism” surrounding Nkrumah’s legacy once they return to power.
“History has a way of being twisted to serve certain political ends,” Mahama stated.
“In every revolution or independence struggle, many contribute, but there is often one figure who plays the critical role in leading that charge. For Ghana, that person is Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.”
The former president drew comparisons with other African countries, such as Tanzania, Zambia, and Kenya, where, despite many contributing to the fight for independence, the founding figures are universally acknowledged: Julius Nyerere in Tanzania, Kenneth Kaunda in Zambia, and Jomo Kenyatta in Kenya. He emphasized that, similarly, in Ghana, Nkrumah’s contributions as the architect of modern Ghana cannot be overlooked.
Mahama criticized the current administration for allegedly altering textbooks and educational materials to elevate the role of the “Big Six”; a group of prominent political leaders from the independence era, at the expense of Nkrumah’s central role.
“They have revised our history, diminishing Nkrumah’s role and exaggerating the contributions of others,” he said. “But the truth remains unshakable. Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is the founder of modern Ghana.”
In a passionate address, Mahama assured his audience that an NDC government would ensure that historical truths are upheld, promising a reevaluation of the educational curriculum to restore Nkrumah’s rightful place in the nation’s history.
Despite his critique, Mahama acknowledged the contributions of various groups in Ghana’s struggle for independence, including the market women, trade unions, and the wider populace. “Many played a part, but there can only be one founder of modern Ghana,” he affirmed.
As he continued his tour of the Western Region, Mahama reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the rich history of Ghana remains intact and that future generations understand the key figures who shaped the nation’s path to independence.
By: Shadrack Odame Agayre | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
Have a news story, press release, or opinion piece you’d like to share with our audience? We’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to us at editor@metrotvonline.com
