Former Vice-Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has called on Ghanaians to rise above partisan politics and collectively honour the enduring legacy of Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Speaking at the 2026 NkrumahFest at Nkroful in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, Dr. Opoku Prempeh emphasized the significance of Nkrumah's contribution to Ghana's independence, nation-building, and Pan-Africanism. He stated that Nkrumah's legacy should be respected across the political divide.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh joined the people of Nzema, the Western Region, Ghana, and the African continent to commemorate Nkrumah's 117th birthday at his birthplace. He expressed "profound humility, deep respect, and patriotic pride" in being part of the celebration. According to him, Nkrumah's impact extended far beyond Ghana, earning him recognition as a thinker, liberation icon, and an important figure in the country's nation-building history. Dr. Opoku Prempeh acknowledged that Ghanaians may continue to hold different views about Nkrumah's governance, economic policies, and approach to national development.
However, Dr. Opoku Prempeh argued that such disagreements should not diminish recognition of Nkrumah's historical contribution to Ghana. He maintained that some historical figures occupy a place beyond the immediate divisions of partisan politics because of the foundational role they played in shaping the nation. Dr. Opoku Prempeh called on Ghanaians to recognize, respect, and hold in high esteem Nkrumah's contribution to placing Ghana on the global map. He stated that all Ghanaians must fully recognize and respect Nkrumah's monumental role in Ghana's history.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh described Nkrumah's vision as expansive and strongly Pan-African, saying his legacy should be celebrated not only as part of Ghana's history but also within the broader story of African liberation and development. He said holding the NkrumahFest at Nkroful was an important national undertaking that should command support irrespective of political affiliation. The event was organized to promote national values and unity.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh commended the Member of Parliament for Ellembelle and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for convening the annual NkrumahFest. He described Armah-Kofi Buah as a brother, colleague, and friend, and said the initiative demonstrated how individuals could promote national values from their respective political and professional positions. Dr. Opoku Prempeh welcomed the invitation to participate in the event, which he said demonstrated that the NkrumahFest was intended to serve a broader national purpose.
The NkrumahFest is an annual celebration held to commemorate Nkrumah's legacy and promote national unity. Dr. Opoku Prempeh urged Ghanaians to preserve the spirit of inclusiveness and use national commemorations such as the NkrumahFest to strengthen unity while reflecting on the country's history and future. He emphasized that genuine patriotism required Ghanaians to look beyond partisan interests and acknowledge the contributions of those who laid the foundations upon which the country's present national identity and democratic system have evolved.
Reflecting on Nkrumah's 117th birthday anniversary, Dr. Opoku Prempeh urged Ghanaians to renew their commitment to selfless service, patriotism, national unity, and development. He said the lessons from Nkrumah's life should inspire contemporary leaders and citizens to place the national interest above narrow political considerations. By doing so, Ghanaians can work towards a more united and developed country.
Key points
- Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh calls on Ghanaians to honour Nkrumah's legacy beyond partisan lines.
- Nkrumah's legacy should be celebrated as part of Ghana's history and the broader story of African liberation and development.
- The NkrumahFest aims to promote national unity and values.
