The Akyem Abuakwa Presbyterian Church has paid glowing tribute to the late Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah for his immense contributions to the propagation of the gospel and the advancement of humanity.
At a wreath-laying ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of his passing, the Chairman of the Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery, Rev. Prof. Seth Asare Danso, praised Dr. Danquah’s dedication to public service, cultural preservation, and democratic governance.
Rev. Prof. Asare Danso stressed Danquah’s pivotal role in consolidating the heritage of Okyeman, defending democracy, and resisting authoritarian rule. He noted that Danquah’s legacy remains an integral part of Ghana’s political and cultural history.
Remembering J. B. Danquah
Ghana was gripped with shock and grief on February 4, 1965, when news broke of Dr. J. B. Danquah’s untimely demise at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison. He had been detained under the orders of President Kwame Nkrumah’s Convention People’s Party (CPP) under harsh and controversial circumstances.
Dr. Danquah devoted his life to the chieftaincy institution and regarded traditional leaders as natural and divinely anointed rulers. At just 21 years old, he served as State Secretary of Akyem Abuakwa and played a key role in organizing the Conference of Paramount Chiefs of the Eastern Province between 1916 and 1921.
His efforts contributed to the establishment of the Joint Provincial Council and later influenced the formulation of the Native Administration Ordinance of 1927.
A prominent advocate for expanded political representation, he was instrumental in the 1934 delegation that persuaded the British Colonial Administration to enlarge the Legislative Council, allowing non-chiefs to participate in governance.
Dr. Danquah’s scholarly contributions to Akan heritage are enshrined in his seminal 1928 work, Akan Laws and Customs – And the Akyem Abuakwa Constitution, a comprehensive study of customary institutions among the Akan people. In recognition of his contributions, Okyeman honored him with the Twafo stool title, enstooling him as Okyeman Twafohene.
Upholding his legacy
Okyeman Twafohene, Okatakyie Ababio Boakye Danquah, pledged to uphold and elevate Dr. Danquah’s legacy, describing him as a guardian of human dignity, culture, and freedom. He emphasized the importance of forging a future rooted in hope, tolerance, and mutual respect, irrespective of political affiliations.
Rev. Atiemo Aye, District Pastor of the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Kyebi, reaffirmed the Presbyterian Church’s commitment to honoring Dr. Danquah’s memory and contributions to faith and society.
Dignitaries in attendance
The ceremony was attended by notable traditional leaders, including the Chief of Adedientem, Barima Ofori Asante; Kyebi Kyedomhene, Barima Bosompem; Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Fori Amantoamiensahene; Akyem Abuakwa State Secretary, D. M. Ofori-Atta; and Manwerehene of Adedientem, Barfour Boamah Darko.
Also present were Dr. Danquah’s children, grandchildren, and other family members.