Former President Akufo-Addo commemorated the 60th Remembrance Service for J.B. Danquah, a pivotal political figure in Ghana, who contested the presidency in 1960 and faced arrests under the Nkrumah regime. Danquah died in prison in 1965 and was later honored by the state posthumously for his contributions to Ghana.
Former President Nana Dankwa Akufo-Addo attended the 60th Remembrance Service for John Boakye Danquah, a significant figure in Ghana’s political history, in Kyebi, Eastern Region. He was joined by former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin. J.B. Danquah is remembered for his candidacy against Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in the 1960 presidential election, which he lost.
On October 3, 1961, Danquah’s political journey took a challenging turn when he was arrested under the Preventive Detention Act amid accusations of plotting against the Convention People’s Party and attempting to assassinate Dr. Nkrumah. Although released in June 1962, he continued his professional career as the President of the Ghana Bar Association.
In January 1964, Danquah faced another arrest without formal charges and was incarcerated at the Nsawam Medium Prison. He died on February 4, 1965, while still imprisoned. His contributions to Ghana were later officially recognized after the National Liberation Council overthrew the CPP in February 1966, leading to his state burial.
The 60th Remembrance Service for J.B. Danquah highlighted his influential role in Ghana’s political landscape and acknowledged the hardships he faced during his life, including arrests and imprisonment. His legacy continues to be honored by political figures, demonstrating the lasting impact of his contributions to the nation.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
