In a pointed critique of Ghana’s political history, former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye, has credited the New Patriotic Party (NPP) with establishing the human rights enjoyed by Ghanaians today, while condemning Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s regime for its disregard for such freedoms.
Speaking at a mentorship programme organized by the NPP Council of Elders to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the formation of the United Gold Coast Convention, Prof. Oquaye emphasized the significant contributions of the NPP’s ideological forebears to the country’s constitutional framework. He highlighted the pivotal role played by the late President Edward Akufo-Addo, who introduced a human rights chapter in the 1969 constitution, a legacy that has been preserved in subsequent constitutions.
“Our forebearers brought this kind of thing. Under Nkrumah, you could be detained almost indefinitely,” Prof. Oquaye remarked. He criticized the Preventive Detention Act (PDA) of 1958, which allowed for five years of detention without trial, extended in 1964 to permit indefinite renewals. “Nobody likes that today, nevertheless, they see a hero in the man who perpetrated it against the people of Ghana. It’s a contradiction. We must claim it and we must know that if you love your freedom, you must love the NPP in Ghana today. Our people were developmental, selfless gentlemen, development-oriented and they spoke about it all the time.”
NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia also addressed the gathering, urging party members to uphold the principles of the Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition as they navigate the future. He stressed the importance of integrating historical lessons with contemporary realities and maintaining the values that define their struggle for freedom.
“As we navigate the future, it is essential to integrate history with current realities. Upholding our party’s heritage involves more than honoring the past,” Dr. Bawumia stated. “It requires maintaining the values and principles that define our struggles for freedom. While celebrating our traditions and heritage, let us remain committed to the ideals of democracy, freedom, and economic development. As we gather to reflect on our past accomplishments and honor our heritage, we look forward to a promising future. I’m particularly excited about the NPP’s mentorship series which I believe will nurture the next generation of leaders committed to our cherished values.”
Ghana’s journey towards establishing a comprehensive framework for human rights has been complex and multifaceted. During the early years of independence, the country experienced significant political and social changes. However, according to Prof. Oquaye, the NPP has been instrumental in ensuring that the protection of human rights remains a cornerstone of Ghanaian governance, contrasting sharply with the restrictive policies of Nkrumah’s era.
