A recent lawsuit filed by the Democracy Hub and the Convention People’s Party (CPP) has reignited a heated debate about Ghana’s historical memory and national identity. At the center of the controversy is the naming of Ghana’s international airport after Lieutenant-General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, a key figure in the 1966 coup that overthrew President Kwame Nkrumah.
The plaintiffs argue that honoring Kotoka contradicts the democratic principles enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, as it symbolizes state endorsement of unconstitutional actions. This assertion has sparked a social media debate between legal scholars Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare and H. Kwasi Prempeh.
Prof. Asare questions the logic of renaming places linked to coup leaders while leaving institutions named after Nkrumah, who established a one-party state in 1964. “Why does KNUST still bear his name?” he asks, warning against selective historical revisionism.
In response, Prempeh argues that coups are inherently unconstitutional, unlike Nkrumah’s one-party state, which was legally established at the time. Prempeh emphasizes that Kotoka’s identity is inseparable from his role in overthrowing constitutional rule, whereas Nkrumah’s legacy spans broader governance achievements.
The debate highlights broader concerns about Ghana’s approach to historical reckoning. While some call for renaming the airport to reflect democratic values, others caution against setting precedents that could lead to selective erasure of historical figures.
Ghana’s historical memory is complex, with various events and figures shaping the country’s national identity. The Independence Arch, for instance, stands as a symbol of freedom and national identity, representing Ghana’s hard-fought battle for independence from colonial rule.
As Ghana continues to grapple with its historical memory, it is essential to consider the implications of renaming or rebranding historical landmarks. The lawsuit and subsequent debate serve as a reminder that Ghana’s national identity is multifaceted, and its historical memory requires careful consideration and nuanced understanding.
GBC/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
