In a thought-provoking statement, Akobulgo-Zotipelba, a citizen from Sirigu in Ghana’s Kessena Nankana West District of the Upper East Region, has expressed his belief that Independence Day celebrations in Ghana and across the African continent are both useless and meaningless.
Independence Day celebration refers to the festivities and commemorations held on the national day of a country to mark its independence or freedom from colonial rule or foreign domination. It is a day of great significance and pride for the citizens of that country, as it symbolizes their sovereignty and self-governance.
The celebrations typically include various activities and events such as flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, military displays, fireworks, cultural performances, speeches by political leaders, and public gatherings. These celebrations often showcase the country’s history, achievements, and cultural heritage, fostering a sense of unity, patriotism, and national identity among the people.
Independence Day celebrations also serve as an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and sacrifices made by the country’s freedom fighters and to honor their memory. It is a time when citizens come together to express their love and devotion for their nation, demonstrating their commitment to upholding its values and protecting its independence.
The specific traditions and customs involved in Independence Day celebrations vary from country to country but generally involve a combination of official ceremonies and public festivities.
Meanwhile, Akobulgo-Zotipelba argues that these celebrations only serve as a means to gather and spend state resources, mistreat the youth, punish school children, security agencies, and public workers.
According to Akobulgo-Zotipelba, claiming independence implies having no connection to others, particularly colonial masters. However, he believes that Ghana, as a country, is still heavily influenced and controlled by foreign powers. The white population continues to control Ghana’s economy, deciding what the country should consume and even determining the budget using dollars instead of the national currency.
Akobulgo-Zotipelba further highlights the irony of celebrating Independence Day in a country that has sought assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) with various conditions imposed by Western powers. The whites also have a say in setting electricity tariffs and taxes in Africa, further exposing the illusion of true independence.
The citizen brings attention to the cocoa industry, a significant economic resource for Ghana. Despite being the ones who cultivate the cocoa, Ghanaians still rely on foreign entities to determine cocoa prices. Additionally, the prevalence of foreign clothing among judges, nurses, doctors, and even pastors reinforces the ongoing control and influence of Western culture in Ghana and Africa.
Akobulgo-Zotipelba raises concerns about the national football team, arguing that hiring a foreign coach for a team representing the country diminishes the sense of national pride and independence. He cites the recent African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, where Ghana’s team complained about their foreign coach. This led the citizen to question the legitimacy of celebrating independence when foreign entities have a say in leading the country’s sports teams.
Drawing historical parallels, Akobulgo-Zotipelba mentions the fate of African leaders who fought for independence. The assassination of Muammar Gaddafi and the overthrow of Kwame Nkrumah, both orchestrated by foreign powers, illustrate the ongoing influence and control exerted over African nations.
Sharing his concluding thought, Akobulgo-Zotipelba suggests that Independence Day celebrations should be redirected towards meaningful projects, such as establishing schools and other facilities bearing the name “Independence Day” in various regions.
“They should rather channel Independence Day into projects, so that we can name Independence Day School in Chiana-Paga, Independence Day Junior High in Bolga East, and Independence Day center in Bolga central and so on than deceiving ourselves with the Independence Day Celebration”
This proposal aims to address the inherent contradiction between the imposed concept of independence and the actual reality in Ghana and Africa as a whole.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana
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