The Peoples National Convention (PNC) has in a congratulatory message to President Kufuor asked him to institutionalize Dr. Nkrumah’s birthday as a National Holiday.

A Press Statement issued by Dr. Edward Nasigrie Mahama, leader of the party, to congratulate President Kufuor said there was no doubt that Nkrumah’s pioneering role in Africa’s liberation struggles contributed to the election.

“This chairmanship to the august body is therefore the continents birthday present to Ghana especially as we celebrate Ghana’s 50th anniversary of political independence. In line with this recognition, it is hoped that you will use the occasion to declare Nkrumah’s birth as a National Holiday in Ghana such that its observation will remind us of the contribution of the greatest son of Africa.”

Furthermore, your chairmanship to the AU at this opportune moment should be used to complete the unfinished agenda of a United Africa as envisaged by the first generation of leaders as opposed to the current formation of a loose collection of individual states to the AU. The unity of Africa is a must and under your Chairmanship, Africa must unite.

“On the occasion of your ascension to the high and enviable office of chairman of the African Union [AU], the family of the People’s National Convention profoundly congratulates your Excellency for this magnificent feat.”

The following is the full statement.

PNC CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT KUFOUR ON CHAIRMANSHIP TO AU

Press release
On the occasion of your ascension to the high and enviable office of chairman of the African Union [AU], the family of the People’s National Convention profoundly congratulates your Excellency for this magnificent feat.

It is believed that Ghana under your Presidency achieved this noble feat as chairman of the AU in recognition of the pioneering achievements of Osagyefo Dr, Kwame Nkrumah as the founder of Ghana and his witting role in the liberation struggles of the Continent which eventually led to the formation of the Organization of the African Union now transformed as African Union.

This chairmanship to the august body is therefore the continents birthday present to Ghana especially as we celebrates Ghana’s 50th anniversary of political independence. In line with this recognition, it is hoped that you will use the occasion to declare Nkrumah’s birth as a National Holiday in Ghana such that its observation will remind us of the contribution of the greatest son of Africa.

Furthermore, your chairmanship to the AU at this opportune moment should be used to complete the unfinished agenda of a United Africa as envisaged by the first generation of leaders as opposed to the current formation of a loose collection of individual states to the AU. The unity of Africa is a must and under your Chairmanship, Africa must unite.

Once again accept our sincerest congratulations.

Issued this 30th day of January, 2007 in Accra
Dr. Edward Nasigrie Mahama
[Leader]