President Mahama revealed CIA involvement in Nkrumah’s removal during the 68th Independence Day, citing declassified US documents. He noted the coup disrupted Nkrumah’s vision for Ghana, which was celebrated for its independence 68 years ago. The ceremony this year was modest due to budget cuts.
President John Dramani Mahama announced during the 68th Independence Day celebration on March 6, 2025, that declassified US documents indicate the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) orchestrated the coup that led to the removal of Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Nkrumah was deposed while he was out of the country, a significant event highlighted by the president as having destabilized the nation.
Mahama stated that historical evidence now clearly attributes Nkrumah’s removal to CIA involvement: “The verdict of history is now loud and clear. Declassified documents from the United States archives reveal that this was a coup inspired and engineered by the CIA.”
He further elaborated on Nkrumah’s vision of a prosperous Ghana, emphasizing that his plans for an industrialized, self-reliant nation were ruptured by the coup on February 24, 1966. This event marked the commencement of years of political instability and military rule in Ghana.
The Independence Day celebration marked 68 years since Ghana’s independence from British colonial rule on March 6, 1957. Under Nkrumah’s leadership, Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence, symbolizing the start of freedom for the continent.
Unlike previous years, the 2025 celebration was described as modest due to budgetary constraints. Key activities included a paraded Military Guard of Honour and cultural performances from local school groups, emphasizing the theme “Reflect, Review, Reset.”
Going forward, similar modest celebrations are anticipated across communities, reversing a recent policy that held celebrations outside the capital to promote inclusiveness. This shift aims to minimize government spending while still commemorating Ghana’s significant historical milestones.
In summary, President Mahama’s remarks during the 68th Independence Day celebrations reveal significant historical insights regarding Kwame Nkrumah’s removal, implicating the CIA as a key player. The day also highlighted Ghana’s independence and the shift towards modest celebrations to manage costs going forward.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
