On February 28, 2025, Ghana will commemorate the 77th anniversary of the Christiansborg Crossroads shooting, a pivotal event in the country’s struggle for independence.
February 28, 1948, a group of veterans from World War II, who had fought with the Gold Coast Regiment of the Royal West African Frontier Force, organized a peaceful demonstration in Accra. The ex-servicemen, who had been denied their benefits and were facing economic hardship, marched to Christiansborg Castle, the seat of the colonial government, to present a petition to the governor.
However, the peaceful protest turned tragic when the police opened fire on the unarmed veterans, killing three of them. The incident sparked widespread outrage and protests across the Gold Coast, marking a turning point in the country’s fight for independence from British colonial rule.
The Christiansborg Crossroads shooting is remembered as a heroic act of defiance against colonial oppression and a testament to the sacrifices made by Ghana’s forefathers in their quest for freedom and self-determination. As Ghana marks the 77th anniversary of this historic event, it is a reminder of the country’s rich history and the continued struggle for justice and equality.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
