Akufo-Addo reacts to JB Danquah name calling
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has strongly condemned derogatory remarks made against the late Dr. Joseph Boakye (JB) Danquah, urging Ghanaians to uphold his legacy rather than tarnish his name.
Defending JB Danquah’s Legacy
Speaking at the 60th Anniversary Remembrance Service at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Kyebi on Sunday, March 9, 2025, Akufo-Addo emphasized JB Danquah’s pivotal role in Ghana’s political development.
His remarks come after Tamale Central MP, Murtala Mohammed, allegedly referred to Dr. Danquah as a “traitor” and a “CIA operative” during parliamentary proceedings on February 4, 2025.
In response, the Coalition for Youth Development in Okyeman submitted a petition to the Speaker of Parliament on March 7 to protest these comments.
Call for an End to Smear Campaigns
Akufo-Addo lamented that JB Danquah’s name remains embroiled in controversy even after his death, despite his immense contributions to Ghana’s democracy.
“The persistent call for the rule of law to be entrenched in our body politic is the ultimate guarantee of liberty and individual freedom. Today, it stands as a central feature of Ghanaian politics, which we must never renounce,” he stated.
Afenyo-Markin Joins the Call for Unity
Delivering a speech on behalf of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin also condemned recent attacks on JB Danquah’s legacy and criticized the invasion of the former Finance Minister’s residence.
He urged Ghanaians to reject hate speech and political division:
“Since the 1940s, no group of people has suffered a smear campaign as enduring as that against Daddy Danquah and his people. These are individuals who have contributed immensely to public service and the betterment of our nation, yet they have been maligned beyond measure for their pure and patriotic sacrifices.”
Afenyo-Markin called for renewed national unity, stressing that Ghana’s democracy must be defended against hate campaigns.
“Let us denounce hate campaigns, regardless of their targets, and put the love and dignity of Ghana and Africa above all differences. What unites us is far greater than the forces seeking to divide and weaken us,” he declared.
Upholding JB Danquah’s Contributions
To commemorate JB Danquah’s 60th anniversary, Akufo-Addo launched a compendium of 60 commemorative statements, highlighting his enduring impact on Ghana’s democracy and rule of law.
