Ghanaians must continue to celebrate their independence because it represents the fundamental right to decide their own destiny, Legal Practitioner and Historian Anokye Frimpong has said.

Speaking in an interview with Kwasi Kyei Baffour (KKB) on Friday edition, ‘Adea Akye Abia’ morning show at Sompa FM-Sunyani ahead of Ghana’s 69th Independence anniversary, the lawyer explained that independence is not merely a historical milestone but a powerful symbol of freedom and self-determination.

According to him, the concept of independence can be understood by examining the word itself.

He noted that “dependence” means relying on someone else to make decisions on one’s behalf. However, when the prefix “in” is added, it changes the meaning entirely to signify the ability of a people to make decisions for themselves without external control.

The Legal Practitioner and Historian stressed that independence gives a nation the authority to determine its own path, laws and priorities without being directed by another country.

“Even if after 69 years you feel you have not gained anything materially, the most important thing you have gained is freedom,” he said.

Mr. Anokye further explained that without independence, Ghana could have been compelled to participate in conflicts that do not concern the nation directly.

He cited the possibility that Ghanaians could have been forced to fight in the ongoing Russia–Ukraine War, similar to how Africans were conscripted during the World War I and World War II when many countries on the continent were still under colonial rule.

He emphasised that the push for independence was not merely a political ambition but was rooted in the universal principle that every people deserve freedom.

Referencing the ideals behind the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, he said the global position is clear that all people must have the right to govern themselves and live in freedom.

The lawyer, therefore, urged citizens to appreciate the significance of independence and use the freedom it offers to contribute to national development.

“Independence means we now have the responsibility to determine our future. No one dictates what we should do or how we should live as a people,” he added.

Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan