President Mahama calls for reflection on independence journey

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to use the occasion of the country’s 68th Independence Anniversary to reflect on the nation’s journey, progress, and challenges as an independent state.
Speaking at the national parade held at the forecourt of the Presidency in Accra, President Mahama emphasized that Independence Day celebrations serve as a reminder of the nation’s struggle for freedom and the sacrifices made by the forebears who led that fight for self-rule.

“It reinforces our national identity, our unity, and patriotism while offering a moment for reflection on our progress and the challenges ahead,” President Mahama stated.

Remembering Nkrumah’s vision
The President paid tribute to Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the nation’s founding leader, who envisioned an industrialized, self-reliant Ghana with a high standard of living and deep-rooted patriotism.
However, he lamented that Nkrumah’s dream was shattered by the coup d’état of February 24, 1966, executed by joint military and police forces, plunging Ghana into decades of instability.
He further noted that classified documents from the U.S. archives revealed the coup was engineered by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), describing it as “the most regrettable and darkest moment in Ghana’s history.”
“This moment sparked a series of historical events that set our country back and significantly delayed the attainment of the objectives of nationhood,” he stated.

Time for reflection
President Mahama stressed that these national celebrations should not merely be a time for festivity but a moment to assess how well national assets are being stewarded for future generations.
“Our story cannot be one of missed opportunities. It will be one of continued efforts to achieve far more than we can boast of now. Posterity will not accept our failures or take them kindly,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to providing bold leadership to navigate the country’s current economic challenges while safeguarding its future.

Breaking the cycle of dependency

President Mahama highlighted the issue of Ghana’s continued economic dependence, frequently illustrated by reliance on imports, donor aid, and International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailouts.
“This reminder is repeated so often that while undeniably real, it risks becoming a cliché. Yet the efficacy of this reminder lies not just in repeating it, but in our willingness to take decisive action,” he said.
He emphasized the need for Ghana to break the chain of dependency through concrete actions rather than empty rhetoric.

Economic reforms
To reset Ghana’s economy, President Mahama disclosed that his administration is implementing policies focused on fiscal discipline and living within the country’s means. He announced the introduction of the 24-Hour Economy Programme aimed at revitalizing the economy.
“This initiative will create the necessary job expansion, boost productivity, increase our export capacity, and enhance trade footprints while reducing our dependence on foreign aid,” he said.

Additionally, he outlined the $10 billion Big Push Initiative, a project designed to modernize Ghana’s infrastructure, create jobs, and stimulate local industry.
“This initiative will demonstrate that development must be driven from within, rather than funded from outside,” he emphasized.

Dignitaries in attendance
The 68th Independence Day Celebration was held under the theme “Reflect, Review, and Reset.” The event featured former President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania as the special guest of honor.
Also in attendance were Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor, along with other dignitaries and citizens who gathered to commemorate the historic occasion.
As Ghana marks another year of independence, President Mahama’s call for reflection serves as a reminder of the country’s resilience, aspirations, and the continuous pursuit of self-reliance and development.