ACCRA – The Head of International Affairs for the British National Archives, Juliette Desplat, accompanied by Keith McMahon, the Chargé d’Affaires of the British High Commission, paid a courtesy call on the Right Honourable Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, today, Wednesday, July 30, 2025. The purpose of their visit was to formally present an authentic copy of “The Bond of 1844” to the Parliament of Ghana.
This significant presentation underscores the enduring historical connections between Ghana and the United Kingdom, and the shared commitment to preserving historical records. “The Bond of 1844” is a pivotal document in Ghana’s colonial history, signed between British representatives and several Fante chiefs, which notably allowed for British judicial jurisdiction over their territories and was a precursor to formal British colonial rule in the then Gold Coast.
It also aimed to suppress practices deemed “barbarous” by the British, such as human sacrifice and “panyarring” (seizing individuals as collateral for debt).
Speaker Bagbin expressed his appreciation for the gesture, recognizing the document’s immense historical value. He stated that the Bond of 1844 captures a crucial period in Ghana’s developmental trajectory.
The Speaker further announced that this authentic copy of “The Bond of 1844” will be prominently displayed at the recently established parliamentary museum within Parliament House.
This initiative is part of Parliament’s broader efforts to preserve national heritage, educate the public on Ghana’s rich history, and provide a valuable resource for historical reference. The presentation highlights a growing collaboration between the Parliament of Ghana and institutions dedicated to archival preservation and cultural heritage.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
