On 1st July 1960, Ghana, a former Colony of the British Empire, decided to attain “full Liberation” by declaring itself a Republic.
What this meant was that all puppeteering strings that connected our country to the colonial masters and systems had to be cut.
Our prime minister, who was just the head of government business after 6th March 1957, became the first President and exercised the first executive powers.
Our Legislative Council, which was just playing advisory Role, with the Governor General holding most of the power, evolved with increased Ghanaian representation and the ability to make its own laws and decisions in the interest of the people.
For the first time
The Ministry of Defence was fully Ghanaian-controlled, with Ghanaians being high-ranking commanding officers and exercising commanding roles.
This led to our security Forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, consolidating and expanding.
Our Educational institutions, like the University of Ghana, transitioned from the University College of the Gold Coast, shedding off all the controls from the University of London.
This gave vision to the establishment of the University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the University of Cape Coast, the Ghana School of Law, and the University of Ghana Medical School, etc.
It is important to note that a National referendum held on 27th April 1960 sought and received the full support of the people of Ghana to become a Republic.
No future government, therefore, has the right to amend this significant Date.
Happy Republic Day, Ghanafoɔ!
