On the 115th anniversary of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s birth, the Socialist Movement of Ghana (SMG) has issued a call to action for Ghanaians, urging them to resist attempts to rewrite history and reclaim national sovereignty.

In a statement celebrating “Founder’s Day”, the SMG reflected on Nkrumah’s legacy, condemned the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) efforts to distort Ghana's independence history, and stressed the need for leadership grounded in Nkrumah’s socialist ideals.

The SMG saluted all Africans and Pan-Africanists across the globe, emphasising the importance of unity and militant struggle for African sovereignty and unification.

In particular, the SMG commended Ghanaians for resisting what it described as the NPP’s “attack on history,” which has sought to downplay Nkrumah’s pivotal role in Ghana’s liberation struggle while elevating colonial elites.

According to the SMG, the NPP’s revisionist efforts included altering textbooks, speeches, and the redevelopment of the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, which the group criticised for transforming a sacred historical site into an entertainment centre. The most significant of these efforts, however, was the passage of the Public Holidays (Amendment) Act of 2019, which the SMG described as a "profound attack on history."

The Act attempted to trivialize September 21st as Nkrumah’s personal birthday celebration rather than acknowledging his role as the sole Founder of Ghana. It also designated August 4th, the day the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) was founded, as "Founders’ Day." However, the SMG noted that the UGCC played a minimal role in Ghana’s independence, representing only a brief two-year period when the colonial elite dominated indigenous politics before the Convention People’s Party (CPP), led by Nkrumah, secured Ghana’s freedom.

Despite these efforts, the SMG stated that the NPP’s attempts to rewrite history have backfired, as Ghanaians have largely rejected the narrative of Dr. J.B. Danquah, whom President Akufo-Addo has repeatedly promoted as Nkrumah’s equal. “Public celebration of Nkrumah’s visionary and capable leadership is now pervasive,” the SMG declared, adding that more events will celebrate Nkrumah’s birthday in 2024 than ever before.

Looking ahead, the SMG warned that the attacks on Nkrumah’s legacy might intensify as the December 2024 general elections approach. They criticized the NPP’s vice-presidential candidate for making disrespect towards Nkrumah a key part of his campaign but expressed hope that a new government would repeal the Public Holidays Act and restore Nkrumah’s rightful place in Ghanaian history.

A Call for Nkrumaist Leadership

As Ghana prepares for elections in 77 days, the SMG highlighted the pressing need for a national leadership that draws inspiration from Nkrumah’s socialist principles. The SMG argued that the country is facing a societal breakdown, with predatory foreign interests dominating its natural resources, agriculture, and key industries. They lamented Ghana’s return to a “neo-colonial” status, where international banking institutions, such as the IMF and World Bank, dictate policy, and Ghana’s elected leaders serve as enforcers for foreign powers.

The SMG stressed that Ghana’s path to true sovereignty lies in revisiting and updating Nkrumah’s vision of socialism. The group called for leaders who are honest with the masses, who can mobilize the nation’s creativity, and who will build institutions that directly address the struggles of the people. The SMG emphasized that leadership must focus on long-term development that benefits all Ghanaians, rather than offering short-term handouts.

Beyond Electoralism: Real Power Lies in Organization

In its closing message, the SMG challenged Ghanaians to go beyond merely voting in elections, stating that “your vote is NOT your power.” The group argued that while voting is important, real power comes from organizing and mobilizing to control social decision-making. They urged citizens to critically assess political candidates from a social class perspective, protect their votes from manipulation, and remain vigilant after the elections.

“The real responsibility of the People,” the SMG declared, “must be to challenge exploiters and impose their authority over whichever government takes office in January 2025.”

As Ghana celebrates Founder’s Day, the SMG called on the nation to reflect on Nkrumah’s vision and work collectively towards reclaiming the country’s sovereignty and future.