Saturday, 09 November

Presby Moderator urges forgiveness in remembrance of J. B. Danquah

Politics
Most Rev Dr Abraham Opare Kwakye unveiling J.B Danquah 's thomb

The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Most Rev Dr Abraham Opare Kwakye, has called on the family of the late Dr J. B. Danquah to embrace forgiveness and focus on promoting the ideals of freedom, justice, and respect for traditional institutions associated with the late statesman.

Speaking at a remembrance service held at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church of Ghana in Kyebi, Dr Opare Kwakye emphasised the importance of letting go of any pains related to the circumstances leading to Dr J. B. Danquah's death. 

He urged the family and friends to draw inspiration from Dr Danquah's legacy in advocating freedom and justice.

The Moderator highlighted the need for total forgiveness, encouraging Ghanaians to emulate Dr J. B. Danquah's spirit of speaking truth to power without fear. 

The remembrance service was attended by several prominent personalities, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, and other dignitaries.

In a tribute during the service, the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori, recounted Dr J. B. Danquah's significant contributions to Okyeman, Akan cultural heritage, and the independence struggle of Ghana. 

He acknowledged the challenges faced by Dr Danquah, including his imprisonment under the Preventive Detention Act (PDA), describing the conditions and treatment as inhumane.

Okyenhene Amoatia Ofori highlighted Dr J. B. Danquah's enduring impact on Akan culture and traditions, citing his influential work, "Akan Laws and Customs – And the Akyem Abuakwa Constitution," published in 1928. 

Despite the challenges faced, including the denial of a proper funeral rite, the Okyenhene urged forgiveness, emphasising the importance of looking toward a brighter future guided by hope, tolerance, and respect for human dignity.

He concluded by describing Dr J. B. Danquah as the epitome of respect for human dignity, cultural preservation, and love for freedom. 

The Okyenhene called on Ghanaians to let go of the past and work towards preserving a culture of peacefulness, personal freedom, and political pluralism.

Dr J. B. Danquah is part of the Big Six, men acknowledged for their contributions towards Ghana’s independence and self-governance.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah