Controversy over Ghana’s Founder… President Wades Into Debate

From Marlvin-James Dadzie, Essikado, W/R

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has refuted claims that the foundation stone of the country was placed by an individual calledDr Kwame Nkrumah,Ghana’s first president.

He said there were numerous Ghanaians who laid down their lives for the liberation of the country and that no single individual can claim sole credit

He said notable names from the Western Region like Mr. George Alfred Grant (Paa Grant), R. S. Blay and Pobee Biney played significant roles in the independence struggle therefore must all be appreciated and recognized as part of the founding fathers of the country.

President Akufo-Addo made these pronouncements yesterday at Essikado near Sekondi in the Western Region.

He maintained that the country’s independence struggle was won by many Ghanaians who constituted the country’s founding fathers and not a “founding father” as is being suggested by some individuals.

“Let’s give praises and recognition to all those who deserve it”, he said.

The Paramount Chief of Essikado-Ketan Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketsia  V, earlier in his welcome statement, said the ongoing debate about the history of the country on whether Ghana was founded by a single individual or a group of individuals, was a very delicate discussion which could divide the country and so suggested that such a debate be abandoned.

But, President Akufo-Addo in response, allayed the fears of the Essikado chief, assuring that the discussion would rather bring about better understanding of the country’s history and unity among Ghanaians.

“If we’re able to recognize the efforts of all those who participated in the struggle, it will encourage us to move ahead stronger as a country and achieve our dreams”, he said.

On Tuesday, President Akufo-Addo visited the graves of George Alfred Grant and R. S. Blay at  Axim and Esiama respectively and laid wreaths on them.