Why I remain an unrepentant Nkrumahist – Asiedu Nketia

Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), cited the free education policy introduced by Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, as a pivotal factor in his political career and current role. Nketia recounted how the policy provided him with an opportunity to pursue formal education, a prospect that would have otherwise been hindered by his family's plans for him.

Speaking at NkrumahFest 2026 held in Nkroful, Western Region, Nketia affirmed his status as an "unrepentant Nkrumahist" due to the profound personal impact Nkrumah's policies had on his life. He remembered being rescued from the streets by the Young Pioneers and subsequently sent to live with his relatives, who were informed that free compulsory universal basic education would require his parents to send him to school or face prosecution.

His family had aspirations to keep him at home to manage the family’s royal responsibilities and cocoa farm. Nketia emphasized that the impact of this policy led him to study Nkrumah's works and commit to preserving his legacy. He viewed NkrumahFest as a platform for Ghanaians to honor the former president's contributions and underscore the importance of safeguarding his enduring legacy.

This year's NkrumahFest in Nkroful aimed to commemorate Dr Nkrumah's 117th birthday and celebrate his lasting impact on the nation.