By the end of this module, the learner should be able to explain how Ghana attained independence, describe early political developments, analyze periods of military rule, and assess Ghana’s role in international organizations such as ECOWAS and the African Union.

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UNIT 10.1: ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE

Introduction

Ghana (formerly called the Gold Coast) became the first Sub-Saharan African country to gain independence on 6th March 1957. This achievement was the result of nationalist struggles led by educated elites, political parties, workers, and ordinary citizens who resisted colonial rule.

The struggle for independence intensified after World War II, when Africans demanded self-rule, equality, and better living conditions.

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1. The 1948 Riots

Meaning

The 1948 riots were nationwide protests against British colonial administration following the shooting of ex-servicemen in Accra.

Causes of the Riots

1. Economic hardship – Prices of goods were high while wages were low.

2. Unemployment – Many ex-servicemen returned from World War II to find no jobs.

3. Discrimination – Africans were treated unfairly compared to Europeans.

4. Ex-servicemen’s protest – On 28th February 1948, ex-servicemen marched peacefully to present a petition to the Governor, Sir Gerald Creasy.

What Happened

• The soldiers were stopped at Christiansborg Crossroads.

• Three ex-servicemen were shot and killed.

• This triggered riots across Accra, Kumasi, and other towns.

• European shops were looted and properties destroyed.

Effects of the Riots

• The colonial government arrested six nationalist leaders known as the Big Six.

• Britain realized that Ghanaians were serious about self-government.

• This led to the establishment of the Watson Commission.

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2. Watson Commission

Meaning

The Watson Commission was a committee sent by Britain in 1948 to investigate the causes of the riots and recommend political reforms.

Key Findings

• Ghanaians were dissatisfied with colonial rule.

• There was a strong desire for self-government.

• The existing political system did not represent the people adequately.

Recommendations

• Africans should be given greater participation in governance.

• A new constitution should be drafted.

Importance

The Watson Commission paved the way for constitutional reforms and accelerated Ghana’s journey toward independence.

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3. Formation of UGCC and CPP

United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC)

• Formed in 1947 by educated elites including J. B. Danquah and Paa Grant.

• Their aim was self-government in the shortest possible time.

They invited Kwame Nkrumah to become General Secretary.

Convention People’s Party (CPP)

• Formed in 1949 by Kwame Nkrumah after breaking away from UGCC.

• CPP demanded self-government NOW.

• Adopted mass action strategies such as strikes and boycotts.

Importance of CPP

• Mobilized ordinary citizens including farmers and workers.

• Won massive popular support.

• Eventually led Ghana to independence.

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UNIT 10.2: ELECTIONS AND EARLY GOVERNMENT

1. 1951, 1954, and 1956 Elections

1951 Election

• First general election under the new constitution.

• CPP won overwhelmingly.

• Kwame Nkrumah became Leader of Government Business.

1954 Election

• CPP again won majority seats.

• Strengthened Nkrumah’s authority.

1956 Election

• Final election before independence.

• CPP won decisively.

• Confirmed public support for independence.

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2. Government from 1957–1960

Independence (1957)

• Ghana became independent on 6th March 1957.

• Kwame Nkrumah became Prime Minister.

Republican Status (1960)

• Ghana became a republic in 1960.

• Nkrumah became the first President.

Major Achievements

1. Expansion of education.

2. Construction of roads and hospitals.

3. Establishment of industries.

4. Promotion of Pan-Africanism.

Challenges

• Economic difficulties.

• Political opposition.

• Increasing authoritarian rule.

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UNIT 10.3: MILITARY RULE IN GHANA

Military rule occurs when armed forces take control of government through a coup d’état.

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1. National Liberation Council (NLC) – 1966

• Overthrew Nkrumah while he was abroad.

• Claimed corruption and dictatorship.

Achievements

• Returned Ghana to civilian rule in 1969.

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2. National Redemption Council (NRC) – 1972

• Led by Colonel Acheampong.

• Overthrew Prime Minister Busia.

Key Policies

• Operation Feed Yourself

• Economic nationalism

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3. Supreme Military Council (SMC I & II) – 1978

• Continued Acheampong’s leadership.

• Faced economic decline and public dissatisfaction.

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4. Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) – 1979

• Led by Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings.

• Focused on “house cleaning” and executed former leaders.

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5. Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) – 1982

• Rawlings returned to power.

• Ruled until 1992.

Achievements

• Economic Recovery Programme

• Decentralization

• Formation of District Assemblies

Transition

• Led to the 1992 Constitution and return to democracy.

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UNIT 10.4: INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

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1. ECOWAS

Meaning

Economic Community of West African States (1975)

Objectives

• Promote regional trade

• Ensure peace and stability

• Improve living standards

Achievements

• Peacekeeping missions (Liberia, Sierra Leone)

• Free movement of persons

• Regional cooperation

Challenges

• Political instability

• Funding problems

• Poor infrastructure

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2. African Union (AU)

Formation

• Established in 2002, replacing OAU.

Objectives

• Promote unity in Africa

• Encourage economic development

• Defend sovereignty

Achievements

• Conflict mediation

• African Passport initiative

• Development projects

Challenges

• Dependence on foreign funding

• Weak enforcement of decisions

• Internal conflicts

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SUMMARY

Ghana’s political history reflects struggle, sacrifice, and resilience. From colonial rule to independence, military interventions, and democratic governance, Ghana’s experience provides valuable lessons on leadership, national unity, and development.

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