Former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye, has asserted that Ghanaians’ current human rights protections are a result of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) efforts, rather than those of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
In his remarks during a mentorship program organized by the NPP Council of Elders, which was part of the 77th anniversary celebrations of the United Gold Coast Convention, Prof. Oquaye argued that Nkrumah’s administration showed little concern for human rights.
He emphasized that it was under President Edward Akufo-Addo’s leadership that a human rights chapter was introduced into the 1969 constitution, which has been integrated into subsequent constitutions.
Prof. Oquaye criticized Nkrumah’s era for its repressive laws, such as the Public Detention Act (PDA), which allowed for indefinite detention. He pointed out the contradiction in viewing Nkrumah as a hero despite these oppressive measures.
In a related statement, NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahaumdu Bawumia urged party members to embrace and uphold the principles of their tradition. He stressed the importance of blending historical values with contemporary realities and remaining committed to the ideals of democracy, freedom, and economic development.
Dr. Bawumi expressed enthusiasm for the NPP’s mentorship program, believing it will foster future leaders dedicated to the party’s core values.
