Are we the nation others think we are? Ghana's governance and identity questioned

A commentary piece questions Ghana's national identity and governance, drawing parallels between past and present leadership failures. The author recalls a 1970 incident involving the Progress Party government, which gave "illegal residents" from other African nations a mere two weeks to obtain residence permits or leave the country. This policy, described as "crazy" and impossible to implement, led to thousands sleeping on the streets in hopes of securing permits, with many ultimately forced to return to their home countries.

The article highlights the unintended consequences of this expulsion, noting that the Ghana Army was tasked with housing and feeding the displaced individuals. This poorly executed policy, along with other government actions, was cited by some army officers as a justification for overthrowing the Busia government. The author points out that the subsequent military regime did not necessarily perform better.

Cameron Duodu, the author, argues that civilian governments must prevent situations that might tempt the military to believe they can govern more effectively. He expresses deep concern over the persistent failure of both previous and current administrations to eradicate the "galamsey" menace – the pervasive issue of illegal small-scale mining. Duodu asserts that this ongoing problem should cause significant unease for all Ghanaians.

The author promises to outline potential measures to combat illegal mining in a future article, suggesting a continued focus on governance and environmental challenges facing the nation. The piece serves as a critical reflection on Ghana's political history and its ongoing struggles with policy implementation and national challenges.

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They are NOT the people we thought they were.