The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has urged a renewed discussion on the proposal to rename the University of Ghana in honor of the late statesman and scholar, Dr. J.B. Danquah. This proposal was initially put forward by former President Akufo-Addo but faced significant opposition from various segments of Ghanaian society.
Annoh-Dompreh expressed his disappointment at the resistance the proposal encountered, highlighting that Danquah’s legacy deserves recognition beyond political divides.
Divided Legacies
The legislator cautioned against creating divisions between the legacies of Dr. J.B. Danquah and Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, emphasizing that both figures made substantial contributions to the nation.
This renewed call for debate follows a commemorative statement in Parliament by Abuakwah South MP Kingsley Agyemang, who praised Danquah as a figure whose impact transcends political lines. Agyemang noted that Danquah’s experiences, including his imprisonment under the Preventive Detention Act, serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding liberties.
Inclusivity in Recognition
While supporting the recognition of Danquah’s contributions, NDC MP for Kwesimintsim, Phillip Buckman urged a more inclusive approach to honoring founding figures. He highlighted the significance of Dr. George Alfred Paa Grant, a key financier of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), and emphasized that recognition should not be limited to political affiliations.
Buckman proposed that the Ghana Tourism Authority could explore ways to celebrate these legacies beyond monuments, fostering a broader national appreciation.
The Road Ahead
As this debate resurfaces, it reflects ongoing discussions about how Ghana honors its historical figures, aiming for unity and inclusivity in recognizing the nation’s heritage.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
