Minority requires revisit of Akufo-Addo’s proposal to rename UG after J.B Danquah – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

The proposal to rename the University of Ghana after Dr. J.B. Danquah has resurfaced in Ghanaian political discourse, reigniting debates over national heroes, historical legacy, and the politics of commemoration. The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has called for a renewed discussion on this matter, citing the need to properly honor Danquah’s contributions to Ghana’s independence and intellectual heritage. This article explores the historical context, the arguments for and against the renaming, and the broader implications for national unity and heritage preservation.

Key Points

Background

Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah was a prominent Ghanaian statesman, scholar, and one of the founding fathers of modern Ghana. He played a pivotal role in the country’s independence movement and is credited with proposing the name “Ghana” for the newly independent nation, drawing inspiration from the ancient Ghana Empire. Despite his contributions, Danquah’s legacy has often been overshadowed by that of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president, leading to ongoing debates about how best to honor national heroes.

The Original Proposal

Former President Akufo-Addo first proposed renaming the University of Ghana after Dr. J.B. Danquah during his tenure. The proposal was met with stiff opposition from various segments of Ghanaian society, who argued that it was not merited or that it risked deepening political divisions. Critics also pointed out that Danquah’s legacy was already well-recognized through other institutions and memorials.

The Political Context

The debate over Danquah’s legacy is deeply intertwined with Ghana’s political history. Danquah and Nkrumah, though both key figures in the independence movement, had a complex and often contentious relationship. This has led to a tendency to draw divisions between their legacies, with some viewing Danquah as a rival to Nkrumah rather than a collaborator in the struggle for independence.

Analysis

The renewed call to rename the University of Ghana after Dr. J.B. Danquah reflects broader questions about how nations choose to honor their historical figures. On one hand, proponents argue that Danquah’s contributions to Ghana’s intellectual and political development warrant such recognition. On the other hand, critics caution against politicizing historical commemoration and emphasize the need for inclusivity in honoring all founding figures.

The Case for Renaming

Supporters of the proposal, including Frank Annoh-Dompreh, argue that renaming the University of Ghana after Danquah would be a fitting tribute to his legacy as a scholar and statesman. They point to his role in naming the country and his contributions to the independence movement as reasons why he deserves such recognition. Additionally, they argue that the fierce opposition to the original proposal was unwarranted and that Danquah’s legacy transcends political divides.

The Case Against Renaming

Opponents of the proposal, including some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), argue that renaming the university could deepen political divisions and overshadow the contributions of other founding figures. They emphasize the need for a more inclusive approach to national commemoration, one that recognizes the roles of multiple leaders in Ghana’s independence struggle. For example, Fiifi Fiavi Phillip Buckman has called for greater recognition of George Alfred Paa Grant, the financier of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), to which Danquah also belonged.

The Role of Heritage Preservation

Beyond the political debate, the discussion highlights the importance of heritage preservation and the role of institutions like the Ghana Tourism Authority in promoting national history. Frank Annoh-Dompreh has suggested that rather than focusing solely on monuments, efforts should be made to leverage Danquah’s legacy for educational and tourism purposes. This approach could help ensure that his contributions are remembered in a way that benefits future generations.

Practical Advice

For those interested in the ongoing debate over national commemoration in Ghana, here are some practical steps to consider:

• Engage in informed discussions: Stay updated on the latest developments and participate in constructive dialogue about how best to honor national heroes.
• Support inclusive initiatives: Advocate for recognition of all founding figures, not just those from a particular political tradition.
• Promote heritage education: Encourage the inclusion of comprehensive national history in school curricula to foster a deeper understanding of Ghana’s past.
• Visit historical sites: Support efforts to preserve and promote historical sites and memorials related to Ghana’s independence movement.

FAQ

Conclusion

The debate over renaming the University of Ghana after Dr. J.B. Danquah is more than just a question of nomenclature; it is a reflection of how Ghana chooses to remember and honor its past. While the proposal has its supporters and detractors, what is clear is the need for a balanced and inclusive approach to national commemoration. By recognizing the contributions of all founding figures and promoting heritage preservation, Ghana can ensure that its history is celebrated in a way that unites rather than divides.