President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stirring call for Ghanaians to transcend political, ethnic, and personal affiliations in the collective pursuit of national development, as the country celebrated its 69th Independence Anniversary on Friday.
Delivering the national address at the Jubilee House in Accra, the President emphasized that the anniversary was more than a ceremonial occasion; it was a powerful reminder of the ongoing duty to build a prosperous and united nation.
Under the theme, ‘Building Prosperity, Inspiring Hope’, President Mahama framed the celebration as a binding covenant between the government and the people. “It represents a solemn promise that every decision we make and every policy we implement must foster prosperity and renew hope for every Ghanaian,” he stated.
A Legacy of Freedom and Continental Vision
The President paid tribute to the nation’s founding fathers, particularly Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, whose leadership secured Ghana’s independence and set a vision for the entire African continent. He recalled Nkrumah’s historic declaration that Ghana’s freedom would be meaningless unless linked to the total liberation of Africa, a vision that continues to guide the nation’s foreign policy.
Ghana’s Enduring Democracy
President Mahama praised the country’s mature democratic culture, highlighting its history of peaceful transitions and political tolerance. “Our democracy has endured because we have learned to compete without destroying, to disagree without hatred, and to transfer power peacefully,” he said. He acknowledged the contributions of successive administrations, regardless of their political leanings, in shaping the nation.
Seeking Justice for the African Diaspora
In a significant announcement, the President revealed that Ghana would take a formal stand on the global stage to address the historical injustices of the slave trade. He noted that later this month, Ghana will submit a motion to the United Nations, formally declaring slavery and the transatlantic slave trade as “the gravest crime against humanity.”
The move, he explained, is intended to strengthen the global campaign for dignity, justice, and restitution. It also reinforces Ghana’s deep connection with the African diaspora, whose resilience and cultural influence, he noted, continue to shape the world.
A Call for Discipline and True Patriotism
Concluding his address, President Mahama urged citizens to demonstrate their love for the country through tangible actions and integrity, rather than mere slogans. “Independence granted us freedom, but freedom demands responsibility,” he asserted.
He called for a renewed sense of national pride and discipline, stressing that true patriotism is reflected in everyday choices. “Above all, we must place country above party, above tribe, and above personal interest,” the President urged.
Acknowledging the challenges of the past, President Mahama expressed confidence in the nation’s resilience. “The journey has not always been smooth. We have stumbled and often felt disappointed in ourselves, but we have never given up,” he said, inspiring hope for the future.
