President John Mahama has blamed Ghana’s economic struggles on the 1966 overthrow of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, describing it as a setback that disrupted the country’s path to industrialisation and self-sufficiency.
Speaking at the Independence Day celebration on Thursday, March 6, 2025, Mr Mahama said the coup plunged Ghana into years of instability, delaying efforts to build a strong and self-reliant economy.
“Nkrumah envisioned an industrialised Ghana where citizens enjoyed high living standards rooted in patriotism and Pan-African unity. But on February 24, 1966, that dream was shattered, setting us back for decades,” he said.
He referenced declassified U.S. government documents, which confirm that the coup was carried out with the involvement of the CIA as part of Western efforts to halt Nkrumah’s economic policies and Pan-African agenda.
Mr Mahama said removing Nkrumah opened the door to Ghana’s growing reliance on foreign aid and economic policies that failed to prioritise local industries.
He urged Ghanaians to reflect on the nation’s journey, stressing that independence should not be viewed as a historical milestone alone but as a foundation for economic progress.
Mr Mahama called for strong leadership and decisive action to break the cycle of missed opportunities and dependence on external assistance.
He assured that his administration would push policies that promote local production, economic expansion, and self-sufficiency.
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