On Ghana’s 68th Independence Day, President John Mahama highlighted the CIA’s role in the 1966 coup that ousted founding father Kwame Nkrumah. He reflected on Ghana’s challenges, including economic issues, while celebrating the country’s achievements in democracy and peaceful power transitions. Mahama emphasized the importance of remembering historical sacrifices to foster unity and progress.
On March 6, 2025, Ghana celebrated its 68th Independence Day, with President John Mahama emphasizing historical U.S. involvement in Ghana’s political affairs. He pointed out the CIA’s significant role in the 1966 removal of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding father, during his speech. Despite ongoing challenges, including economic issues, Mahama highlighted Ghana’s successful establishment as a democracy characterized by peaceful power transfers.
In his speech, President Mahama acknowledged that while some of Ghana’s problems are evident, others, such as historical U.S. interference, are often overlooked. He stated, “Independence Day celebrations…honor the sacrifices of our forbearers who led that struggle for self-rule,” emphasizing the importance of reflecting on national history as part of the celebrations.
Mahama called attention to Dr. Nkrumah’s vision for an industrialized, self-reliant Ghana before the coup of February 24, 1966, which he described as a dark period that led to instability. He declared, “the verdict of history is now loud and clear: declassified documents from the United States archives reveal that it was a coup inspired and engineered by the CIA.”, describing the coup’s aftermath as detrimental to the nation’s progression.
The 68th Independence Day of Ghana served as a platform for President John Mahama to address historical events, particularly U.S. interference through the CIA. His recognition of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s vision and the consequences of its disruption underscores the importance of historical awareness in shaping Ghana’s present and future. Ultimately, Mahama’s message promotes national unity and the resilience of Ghanaian democracy despite past adversities.
Original Source: africa.businessinsider.com
