On January 13, 1972, Colonel Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, the commander of Ghana’s First Infantry Brigade, orchestrated a non-violent coup that ousted Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia’s government, represented by the Progress Party.
This coup marked the end of Ghana’s Second Republic and the rise of a military regime led by the National Redemption Council (NRC).
Acheampong justified the takeover by pointing to issues such as economic mismanagement, escalating inflation, and widespread public discontent.
The austerity measures implemented by Busia, which included wage freezes and currency devaluation, had exacerbated the hardships faced by the populace.
This pivotal event in Ghana’s political timeline ignited discussions regarding its implications for governance and societal progress. While some viewed Acheampong’s leadership as essential for restoring stability, others condemned his rule for its corruption and poor management.
As Ghana reflects on this occurrence 53 years later, it highlights the critical need to uphold democracy and draw lessons from past upheavals.