The call by Dr.JB Danquah 50 years ago that good governance and the dignity of man was essential for a nation to progress is as relevant today as it was then. This was highlighted at a Press Conference organised by the executives of NPP UK and the Ghanaian and International media in London
The Press Conference, under theme ?The ideas of JB Danquah and its relevance to Ghana today? was part of a series of events being organised by the branch party to commemorate the 5oth Anniversary of Dr.Danquah?s death.Mr Richard Dombo, 1st Vice Chairman, NPP UK gave a background to Dr.Danquah?s humble beginnings to his founding with other patriots, the United Gold Coast Convention which became the first political party in Ghana and his differences with the late Dr. Kwame Nkrumah which led to his detention and tragic death. He said Dr.Danquah?s letters and writings showed that even in prison he was committed as a nationalist to give to his people and enrich public life.
Michael Ansah, NPP UK chairman who chaired the function said it was very sad that that the ideals that Dr.Danquah championed and fought for; human rights, transparency in government business, a strong judiciary, welfare for the citizens are still missing from the economic and political fibre of the country.He lamented that 50 years after his death, his numerous suggestions, criticisms and differences of opinion with the then leaders which led to his incarceration atNsawam Prison and eventual death showed that the country would have been better off if democracy and the tolerance for divergent views had been allowed to take root. 50 years on, Ghana is still slowly and painfully trying to make headway to build strong institutions while facing challenges in the midst of ineffective governance, rising intolerance and corruption in every area of our public life.
Mr Ansah said it was time for Dr Danquah to be restored to his proper place in Ghana?s political History and democraticdispensation, It was time for his works and contribution to Ghana?s legislative and Literary culture be respected. He called for the University of Ghana to be renamed the JB Danquah University of Ghana in recognition for the role in played in having the University established.
Other members present included John Kissi Branch Secretary, Saeed Duah, Branch Organiser, AyishaNimoh Deputy Youth Organiser and Nana Yaw Sarpong, Communications officer.
A two minute silence was held in his honour by all present .
