In a recent lecture, Professor Raymond Atuguba, Dean of the University of Ghana School of Law, challenged the widely accepted narrative surrounding Ghana’s Founders’ Day. Atuguba disputed President Nana Akufo-Addo’s assertion that the “Big Six” should be credited as the primary architects of the nation’s independence.
Professor Atuguba’s remarks came during a public lecture aimed at reevaluating the historical accounts of Ghana’s independence struggle. He argued that the focus on the Big Six—Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Dr. J.B. Danquah, Edward Akufo-Addo, Emmanuel Obetsebi-Lamptey, William Ofori Atta, and Ebenezer Ako-Adjei—overshadows the contributions of many other significant figures and movements that played crucial roles in the fight for independence.
The Big Six are often celebrated for their leadership in the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), an organization instrumental in the early stages of the independence movement. However, Atuguba emphasized that Ghana’s path to independence was a collective effort involving numerous individuals and groups across the country. He suggested that the exclusive focus on the Big Six is a simplistic view that fails to capture the complexity and diversity of the independence struggle.
Atuguba’s critique extends to the establishment of Founders’ Day, a national holiday introduced by President Akufo-Addo to honor the Big Six. The holiday, celebrated on August 4th, has been a subject of debate, with some arguing that it unfairly elevates the contributions of the Big Six above other key figures in Ghana’s history.
The law professor called for a more inclusive approach to commemorating Ghana’s independence, suggesting that the contributions of lesser-known activists, grassroots movements, and ordinary citizens should also be recognized. By broadening the scope of historical recognition, Atuguba believes that Ghana can better honor the true spirit of its independence movement.
The debate over Founders’ Day highlights broader discussions about historical memory and national identity in Ghana. As the country continues to evolve, there is an ongoing conversation about how best to remember and celebrate the past. Atuguba’s remarks are a call to action for historians, educators, and policymakers to reexamine the narratives that shape Ghana’s national consciousness.
President Akufo-Addo has defended the creation of Founders’ Day, stating that it serves to honor the pivotal role played by the Big Six in Ghana’s journey to independence. However, Atuguba’s critique suggests that a more nuanced understanding of history is needed to fully appreciate the collective efforts that led to Ghana’s liberation from colonial rule.
The lecture by Professor Atuguba is part of a broader effort to encourage critical thinking and dialogue about Ghana’s history. As the nation reflects on its past, there is hope that a more inclusive narrative will emerge, one that celebrates the diverse contributions of all those who fought for independence.
Source: GhanaWeb
