Former President Nana Akufo-Addo, alongside former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, commemorated the 60th Remembrance Service of John Boakye Danquah, a key historical figure who faced political persecution under Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s regime, and was later honored with a state burial after his death in prison.
Former President Nana Dankwa Akufo-Addo attended the 60th Remembrance Service of John Boakye Danquah, a respected statesman, scholar, and lawyer, in Kyebi, Eastern Region. He was joined by former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin at this significant event honoring Danquah’s legacy.
John Boakye Danquah was a pivotal figure in Ghana’s political history, known for contesting Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in the 1960 presidential election, which he ultimately lost. His political activities led to his arrest on October 3, 1961, under the Preventive Detention Act, where he faced allegations of plotting against the Convention People’s Party (CPP) and Dr. Nkrumah.
Despite being released in June 1962 and later serving as the President of the Ghana Bar Association, Danquah was rearrested in January 1964 without formal charges and subsequently detained at Nsawam Medium Prison. Tragically, he passed away on February 4, 1965, while incarcerated.
Following the National Liberation Council’s overthrow of the CPP in February 1966, Danquah was posthumously honored, receiving a state burial that acknowledged his significant contributions to Ghana.
Additionally, there is a special edition of “People and Places” celebrating Ghana Month, which recounts the story of how the head of Kwame Nkrumah’s bronze statue was returned after 43 years.
The 60th Remembrance Service for John Boakye Danquah, attended by notable figures such as Former President Nana Akufo-Addo, highlighted the enduring significance of his contributions to Ghana’s political landscape. Despite his tumultuous experiences with political repression, Danquah’s legacy is honored posthumously, illustrating the impact of his life and work on the nation.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
