HER EXCELLENCY MRS FLORENCE BUERKI AKONOR, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 67TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY

SPEECH BY THE HIGH COMMISSIONER, HER EXCELLENCY MRS FLORENCE BUERKI AKONOR, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 67TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF GHANA WHICH FALLS ON

6TH MARCH, 2024

Fellow Ghanaians;

Friends of Ghana;

Today represents a very important milestone in the history of Ghana. Sixty-seven years ago, precisely on 6th March, 1957, our forefathers, led by Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, fought for the independence of our beloved country, the then Gold Coast, now Ghana. A move which made Ghana the first Sub-Saharan African country to have gained independence from British colonial rule.

This noble sacrifice of our forefathers paved the way not only for Ghana’s liberation but for the emancipation of the entire African continent and the resurrection of the spirit of Pan-Africanism across Africa. 

In his remarkable independence speech, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah proclaimed Ghana’s freedom and that of the African continent from dependence and external control. He called for Ghana and the African continent to be free, independent, self-sufficient and capable of managing internal affairs without external interference.

Fellow Ghanaians, in Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Timor-Leste, the Philippines, Indonesia, Viet Nam, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand and Myanmar, the theme for this year’s celebration is “our democracy, our pride”. This not only brings in mind the toils of our freedom fighters but the contributions made by the leaders and people of our dear country to progress from military control to the democratic dispensation we enjoy today. It also brings into consideration the achievements and challenges, the lessons learnt and the way forward to achieving a better democracy that is capable of ensuring equal rights, equitable access to national resources, the rule of law, respect of human rights, and promoting stable political and economic reforms that will secure the welfare of all Ghanaians.

Democracy is a way of life propagated through the principles of equality, freedom and justice.  Although our country has over the years upheld peaceful democratic doctrines as enshrined in Ghana’s constitution by holding free and fair elections, establishing an independent electoral commission, strengthening institutional mechanisms, justice systems, among other laudable policies, the journey is far from over.

As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, we should seize the moment to reflect on our internal attitudes and mindsets, our contributions and commitments to national development and forge ahead as one people to promote sound democratic principles including inclusivity, self- sufficiency, and unity amongst all Ghanaians.

I am proud to mention that over the years, Ghanaians all over the world, Southeast Asia included, have continuously demonstrated attributes of peace and lawfulness, a great testament to Ghana’s acclaimed democratic credentials. Through these concerted efforts, Ghana can boast of being the most peaceful country in Africa.

Despite these achievements, the journey towards attaining a perfect democratic system is still an ongoing process. The journey has not been devoid of challenges such as corruption, social inequalities, partisan politics, all of which threaten to undermine the strides made towards attaining solid democratic governance.

As Ghanaians, both leaders and citizens, let us join hands to confront these challenges and support our democratic process by promoting dialogue instead of violence, encouraging tolerance, respect for all ethnicities, political viewpoints and embracing all religions. Let us be content in knowing that our strength lies in the diversity of our people.

The Independence Day celebration is a clear indication of the country’s determination to chart its own course towards progress and development. As Ghana continues to move forward on the agenda of democracy, we should be reminded of our responsibility as Ghanaians to build a prosperous and progressive nation. Today should serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving freedom, unity, transparency, accountability and collectively working together towards one goal “achieving a better, brighter and a more stable economy for all citizens and future generations”.

I urge us all to renew our commitment towards Ghana’s democracy.  May the legacies of our forefathers guide us to overcome the challenges ahead as we work tirelessly to fulfil the noble cause of an independent, resilient, democratically-led nation, to the admiration of all. Together we stand, divided we fall.

Ayekoo Ghana. I wish all Ghanaians a happy Independence Day celebration. May God bless our homeland Ghana and make her great and strong.

Thank you!!!