Ghana’s Historical Naratives: A Reflection on Identity and Deceit

Professor Ernest Kofi Abotsi highlights Ghana’s struggle with historical narratives that promote self-deceit and dishonesty, tracing it back to the nationalist movements before independence. He argues that the lack of a cohesive historical narrative contributes to an ongoing identity crisis and political manipulation. Recent comments by MP Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed on JB Danquah have sparked debate about the legacies of political figures, prompting calls for an investigation and apology.

Professor Ernest Kofi Abotsi, Dean of the University of Professional Studies Law School, has stated that Ghana’s struggles with historical narratives reflect a culture of deceit and dishonesty. He emphasized that this historical dishonesty can be traced back to pre-independence times, where factions within the nationalist movement sought to manipulate the narrative of independence for political legitimacy.

On his official X account, Professor Abotsi noted, “Contesting Nkrumah, JB Danquah, and Rawlings’ legacy to Ghana’s history….! Ghana’s lack of objective history reflects on our self-deceit and dishonesty, and our pre-induced greed and historical appropriation which remains our bane today.” This remark pertains to ongoing misinformation and disagreements surrounding the legacies of key political figures in Ghana.

Furthermore, he indicated that the absence of a cohesive and honest historical narrative has resulted in an identity crisis for Ghana, allowing the shadows of the past to impact the present. He remarked, “Rather than learning from the lessons of history, many political actors use it to perpetuate their own agendas, at times to the detriment of the nation.”

Recently, comments by Tamale Central Member of Parliament, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, suggesting JB Danquah was not worthy of celebration due to allegations against him, have ignited significant debate. This prompted a response from the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, seeking an investigation and an apology from the MP.

In summary, Professor Abotsi’s insights shed light on the challenges Ghana faces concerning historical narratives and their implications for national identity. The difficulties in reconciling differing perspectives on key political figures have manifested as a culture of dishonesty, hindering progress. The ongoing disputes highlighted by recent political comments further exacerbate this issue, suggesting a need for a more objective and inclusive historical discourse in the country.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com