Kojo Boakye-Djan
Ex-Major Kojo Boakye-Djan, a prominent Ghanaian military officer and politician, has passed on Wednesday, August 30, 2023.
Boakye-Djan is best known for his involvement in the coup that brought Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings to power in Ghana on June 4, 1979.
Boakye-Djan attended Opoku Ware School and Achimota School before joining the Fifth Infantry Battalion. He played a crucial role in the 1979 coup, which led to the overthrow of the Supreme Military Council government and the establishment of the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC).
In the early 1970s, Boakye-Djan and a group of colleagues formed the Free Africa Movement, aiming to seize power as senior officers in the army in the 1980s. However, due to the abortive coup attempt by Flight Lieutenant Rawlings on May 15, 1979, Boakye-Djan and his comrades were forced to initiate their own coup. It was one of his members, Peter Tasiri, who launched the coup, causing confusion and a lack of clear leadership.
Over the years, Boakye-Djan’s relationship with Rawlings became strained, leading to a lack of communication since the end of the AFRC rule. Despite this, Boakye-Djan remained affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and continued to be active in political matters.
Boakye-Djan’s legacy is divided among Ghanaians. While some view him negatively for his role in the coup, others recognise the strategic maneuvering that led to the establishment of the Third Republic and the election of Dr. Hilla Limann as president on September 24, 1979.
In his later years, Boakye-Djan became increasingly concerned about the direction of Ghana’s governance. He believed that corruption, tribalism, and sexism were plaguing the nation and called for religious leaders and traditional rulers to join forces and help “cleanse our father’s house.”
Boakye-Djan’s death marks the loss of a significant figure in Ghanaian history. His contributions and controversial actions continue to shape the country’s political landscape, leaving behind a legacy that is both applauded and criticised.
The nation mourns the passing of Major Kojo Boakye-Djan, and is left to reflect on the complex and ever-evolving history of Ghana.
By Vincent Kubi