Maj Sulemana: 1943-2026

Tolon Naa Maj Sulemana Abukari, a retired Army Major of the Recce Regiment, has passed away. His death has heightened the awareness of life's fleeting nature. Like a flower that starts as a small bud and eventually withers, Maj Sulemana's life displayed vibrant colors before eventually drying up and dissolving into the ground. He served as a commanding officer in the Ghana Army, leading the Black Berets, and was known for his commanding presence and clear orders.

Maj Sulemana passed away at the age of 83, and while he resided in Ghana, he had contributed significantly to the country's Armed Forces and politics. Being commissioned in 1963, only six years after Ghana's independence, he possessed a unique perspective on the early days of the post-independence military. His role in preventing a coup attempt in 1979 is noteworthy, as he protected President Jerry John Rawlings from potential harm.

Rumors circulated that he may have tortured Rawlings, but Maj Sulemana refuted these claims, stating he offered the president whiskey instead. He is remembered as a significant link between the officer corps of the post-independence era and the Rawlings coup period, witnessing the rapid transformation of the country and lamenting the loss of discipline and adherence to regimented life.

Maj Sulemana once told Rawlings, "guns cannot change Ghana," emphasizing the futility of military intervention in achieving political change. Despite his passing, his words remain relevant today, as corruption has evolved into more sophisticated forms in 2026. The former soldier's legacy endures, as he was honored with the title of Tolon Naa, and his discipline positively impacted the traditional authority in his community.