NAPO: Nkrumah Legacy Must Transcend Partisan Politics
Former NPP Running Mate Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh has called on Ghanaians to rise above partisan politics and uphold the legacy of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah. The former Education Minister made the call in Accra while reflecting on national unity and heritage preservation as Ghana marks Founders Day activities.
According to Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, the ideals of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah must not be reduced to party colours. He said Nkrumah’s vision for industrialisation, African unity and self-reliance remains relevant for all governments regardless of political affiliation. He urged young Ghanaians to study Nkrumah’s writings and speeches for guidance on national development.
The former Manhyia South Member of Parliament noted that attempts to politicise Nkrumah’s legacy distract from its true essence. He stressed that Ghana’s first President sacrificed personal comfort for national liberation and pan-African emancipation. NAPO added that preserving monuments, historical sites and educational materials on Nkrumah will help future generations appreciate his contribution beyond partisan debate.
Founders Day in Ghana, observed on 21 September, was instituted to honour the contributions of all who contributed to Ghana’s independence, with Kwame Nkrumah as the foremost figure. The holiday replaced the old Founders Day arrangement and was backed by the Public Holidays Amendment Act. Nkrumah led Ghana to independence on 6 March 1957, established the Convention People’s Party and championed the Organisation of African Unity, now the African Union. His policies on Free Education, the Akosombo Dam and state-led industrialisation continue to generate scholarly discussion.
Under the Free SHS policy introduced in 2017 and expanded under subsequent administrations, Ghanaian students study Ghanaian history including Nkrumah’s role. The CSSPS placement system and WASSCE grading system under WAEC remain central to senior high school transition. Experts say integrating Nkrumah’s philosophy into civic education will strengthen national identity and social cohesion without partisan distortion.
The call by NAPO has sparked reactions on social media, with many agreeing that national icons must be protected from political rivalry. Observers note that as Ghana prepares for 2028, messages that promote unity over division will resonate strongly. The legacy of Nkrumah, they argue, must inspire infrastructure renewal, youth empowerment and continental integration.
Author: Korkor Anumu
