stewardship, President John Agyekum Kufuor on Tuesday paid homage to
people whose sweat and toil gave Ghana political independence from
British colonial rule.
"Today, I pay homage to the first President of Ghana, Dr Kwame
Nkrumah and his colleagues from the United Gold Coast Convention who
in 1947 launched the last phase of the process towards independence."
Addressing thousands of people who thronged the Independence
Square to mark 50 years of Ghana's independence, he paid tribute to
J.B. Danquah, Paa Grant, Edward Akufo-Addo, William Ofori-Atta and Ako
Adjei, who initiated the process of political emancipation.
Digging down into history, he listed giants of the Danquah-Busia
and Nkrumaist traditions, which had shaped the political history of
Ghana.
" But above all, let us give thanks and praise for the many
Ghanaians throughout the years who have worked anonymously and often
without reward to make our nation what it is today."
President Kufuor singled out his colleague heads of state,
including the Special Guest, President Olusegun Obasanjo for joining
Ghana to celebrate the big day.
" I am sure you will agree with me that it is a celebration not
only for Ghana but also for the whole of Africa. For March 6, 1957
changed the outlook of our Continent and its status and role in the
world forever.
"The African on the Continent, who for centuries had been
violated and subjugated through the Slave Trade and Colonialism. That
fateful day succeeded in breaking asunder, the chains of bondage.
Today therefore is as much Ghana's celebration as it is for the rest
of Africa."
Every space at the Independence Square was adorned with the
national colours and filled to capacity by cheering citizens and
non-citizens alike, some of whom gave the security personnel hard time
as they surged to the parade grounds to have a full view of the
historic moment.
Chiefs, politicians, journalists and people from all walks of
life were seen clad in the national colour, kente or smocks apparel
and waving miniature flags.
There was deafening shouts as the Police Constabulary escorted
President Kufuor to the Square. The smiling President waved
enthusiastically to the crowd and proceeded to inspect the Guard of
Honour mounted by the security agencies and lit the Perpetual flame.
06 March 07
ghana
