Anti-corruption campaigner Vitus Azeem has called for the renaming of the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in honour of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, arguing that national monuments should reflect the country’s founding ideals and democratic heritage.
Speaking to Citi News on Tuesday, July 16, Mr. Azeem said it is historically and morally inappropriate for a major national asset to bear the name of Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kotoka, who played a key role in the 1966 military coup that ousted Nkrumah.
“We need to name important state institutions and assets after people who have contributed significantly to Ghana’s development. That is why I suggest renaming the airport after Kwame Nkrumah,” he stated.
His comments echo recent sentiments expressed by Cardinal Peter Turkson, who questioned the practice of memorialising figures associated with the toppling of democratically elected governments.
Mr. Azeem argued that such a change would be both symbolic and restorative, paying homage to Nkrumah’s legacy as a pan-Africanist and visionary leader.
“Nkrumah’s influence shaped not just Ghana but inspired liberation movements across Africa. Countries like Kenya and Tanzania have named their international airports after Jomo Kenyatta and Julius Nyerere. Why should Ghana be any different?” he asked.
He added that with the right political will and parliamentary support, the renaming process could be straightforward.
Lieutenant General Kotoka was part of the National Liberation Council (NLC) following the 1966 coup and later served as Commissioner for Health and General Officer Commanding of the Ghana Armed Forces. He died in 1967 during a failed counter-coup, after which Ghana International Airport was renamed in his honour.
Mr. Azeem’s call adds to the ongoing debate about national memory and who deserves to be commemorated in Ghana’s public spaces.
Source: Myjoyonline
