The Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Nii Moi Thompson, has criticised media personality and self-styled historian Anokye Frimpong over what he describes as repeated distortions of Ghana’s political and independence history.
In a Facebook post, Dr Thompson accused Mr Frimpong of exaggerating and, in some instances, fabricating key historical accounts, cautioning that such narratives could undermine national cohesion and development.
“Most of what our ‘historian’ friend palms off as history are either exaggerations or outright fabrications,” he wrote, urging media houses to engage professional historians or individuals committed to factual accuracy.
Dr Thompson challenged claims that the United Party (UP) was formed ahead of the 1956 elections, stating that the party was established in November 1957 after independence.
He explained that the UP emerged in response to post-independence political developments under Kwame Nkrumah, including the Avoidance of Discrimination Act.
He also disputed accounts of the 1948 ex-servicemen’s protest, rejecting claims that the petition was dictated by Ebenezer Ako-Adjei and written by Nkrumah. Citing the Watson Commission and the writings of George Padmore, Dr Thompson said the petition was led and signed by the ex-servicemen themselves under B. E. A. Tamakloe.
The NDPC Chairman further dismissed claims linking Ghana’s “Black Star” symbol to 18th-century philosopher Anton Wilhelm Amo, arguing that historical evidence points instead to the influence of Marcus Garvey and his Pan-African philosophy, which inspired Black empowerment movements globally.
Warning that misinformation could fuel ethnic and political tensions, Dr Thompson called on media organisations to strengthen editorial standards and ensure historical discussions are grounded in verified facts.
“Our history belongs to all of us. If we get it wrong, we risk misleading the next generation and weakening the foundations of our development,” he stated.
