Akufo-Addo hopeful Tamale parade sparks rotation of independence celebrations

The success of the 62^nd Independence Day parade, which was for the first time held outside Accra, may just mark the beginning of the ceremony being held at different venues across the country. This, according to President Nana Akufo-Addo, makes room for other parts of the country to be explored. He stated this while delivering his speech at the 62^nd Independence Day parade in Tamale. The ceremony for the past 61 years has been held at the usual Black Star Square in Accra. But for the first time in the history of Ghana, the venue was moved to the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale. President Akufo-Addo stated that the hosting of the parade in Tamale is to celebrate the peace between the Abudus and Andanis following the successful enskinment of a new Ya-Na.

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Thus, this year’s anniversary celebration was on the theme ‘Celebrating Peace and Unity’. Addressing the gathering, President Akufo-Addo said there is the need for all chieftaincy disputes to be put to rest in order for peace to prevail among all in the country, and that such disputes have caused the country a lot of unrest. He therefore expressed delight over the successful end to the age-long dispute between the Andanis and Abudus, stating that the parade which was held in Tamale is for all the parties to celebrate the peace that prevails today. President Akufo-Addo commended the people of Tamale for being ‘gracious hosts’ to the many dignitaries and visitors who have thronged the town for the 62^nd anniversary celebration.

According to him, the success and beauty of the event could just make room for the Independence Day celebration to be hosted in other cities across the country other than Accra. “This has never been done before, and the success of the Tamale experience may however set the trend for the rotation of this ceremony. I hope that very soon we shall be hearing some very exciting news about development in the Northern Region,” President Akufo-Addo said. Past presidents, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and other dignitaries and well meaning Ghanaians were in Tamale for the celebration. The parade was also graced by the president of Niger, Mahamoudou Issoufou, who was the special Guest of Honour.

By Irene Amesimeku|editors.3news.com|Ghana