By Kwame Bediako
President John Dramani Mahama paid glowing tribute to Ghana’s founding father, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, during the 69th Independence Day celebrations on March 6, 2026, crediting him with igniting a profound sense of consciousness and continental purpose.
“Nkrumah didn’t just grant us independence; he awakened within us a sense of consciousness and a continental purpose,” Mahama declared, highlighting the role of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), Convention People’s Party (CPP), and countless unsung heroes in reshaping African history.
He honoured Nkrumah’s enduring memory alongside every leader who followed, emphasizing their collective contributions to Ghana’s journey.
From Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia to J.A. Ankrah, Akwasi Afrifa, Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, General Akuffo, Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kufuor, John Evans Atta Mills, and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Mahama noted, “All of them have been a part of our history and have brought us to this moment in our lives.”
Mahama stressed that every administration, irrespective of political affiliation, has advanced the nation-building project.
“Every administration, regardless of its political inclination, has played its part in building the nation we all proudly call Ghana,” he stated, underscoring the shared legacy that unites Ghanaians today.
Praising the resilience of Ghana’s democracy, the President affirmed its strength through peaceful competition and transitions.
“Our democracy has endured because we’ve learned to compete without destroying, to disagree without hatred, and to transfer power peacefully, which is evidence of the maturity and wisdom of the Ghanaian people,” he said.
