A distinguished cadre of legal luminaries has paid resounding tribute to Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah, immortalizing his profound contributions to Ghana’s legal and constitutional development in the soon-to-be-launched J.B. Danquah 60th Anniversary Commemorative Compendium. The publication, which brings together reflections from some of Ghana’s most prominent lawyers, scholars, and statesmen, will be officially unveiled on March 9, 2025, at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Kyebi, under the auspices of the current Twafohene of Akyem Abuakwa, Okatakyie Boakye Danquah Ababio.
Dr. J.B. Danquah’s towering influence on Ghana’s legal and political architecture is well-documented, and the compendium serves as a testament to his enduring impact. His fierce advocacy for the rule of law, his pioneering work in constitutional development, and his unrelenting defence of human rights have been the cornerstone of Ghana’s democratic foundation. Eminent legal minds, both past and present, have contributed deeply insightful tributes in recognition of his legacy.
A Legacy Enshrined in Ghana’s Legal and Political Framework
Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, an eminent legal scholar and former Speaker of Parliament, affirms Danquah’s pivotal role in Ghana’s independence movement, citing his 1947 proclamation of Ghana’s liberty as one of the defining moments of the nationalist struggle. “Ghana’s Famous Declaration was made in 1947 by Danquah (whom the British declared as the ‘Doyen of Gold Coast Politics’). He proclaimed that ‘We brought with us our ancient freedom… and the time has come for a decision.’ This declaration set the stage for the independence struggle, long before others arrived on the scene,” he remarked.
Hon. Samuel Atta Akyea, MP for Abuakwa South, speaking in Parliament on the 55th anniversary of Danquah’s passing, powerfully underscored the gravity of his sacrifice. “Mr. Speaker, I beg to submit that our current freedom was largely purchased with the innocent blood of the doyen of Gold Coast politics, the inimitable Dr. Joseph Kwame Kyeretwie Boakye Danquah, whose final funeral rites are still outstanding 55 years down the line. Let this Parliament initiate the programme to give this world-class legislator a befitting and final send-off. This is the least we could do to honour Ghana’s sacrificial lamb.”
Former Attorney General Joe Ghartey, in his contribution on the floor of Parliament on February 4, 2015, lauded Danquah’s legal dexterity, particularly in the historic Re: Akoto case, which exposed the flaws of arbitrary executive detention. “When you look at Re: Akoto and the decision given, it clearly explains why today we have Chapter 5 of the Constitution, which is enforceable. These remarkable advances in our legal framework must lead us to the conclusion that indeed, we have come a long way as a nation. That is why we celebrate people such as Dr. J.B. Danquah, who made sacrifices so that some of us can reach where we are today.”
The Manwerehene of Akyem Abuakwa, Barima Yaw Kodie Oppong, delved into Danquah’s profound contributions to African jurisprudence, particularly his seminal work in Cases in Akan Law and Gold Coast Akan Laws and Customs. “By moving away from European case collections and placing emphasis on Akan-African legal principles, he positioned himself not only as an Africanist legal luminary but as a scholar whose works continue to influence Ghanaian customary law today.”
A Towering Legal Figure Whose Influence Endures
Respected jurist Nii Ayikoi Otoo emphasized Danquah’s unparalleled impact on Ghana’s legal evolution, asserting that “his influence transcended the realm of constitutional law, and his indelible mark on Ghana’s legal system cannot be overemphasized. As a brilliant jurist, he played a yeoman’s role in shaping the country’s legal framework, laying the foundation for a system that would stand the test of time. His intricate understanding of both traditional Ghanaian law and British Common Law enabled him to craft a unique legal tapestry that respected local customs while embracing modern jurisprudence.”
Veteran lawyer Frank Davies similarly highlighted Danquah’s forward-thinking approach to legal and human rights advocacy. “As a key architect of Ghanaian nationalism, he recognized that true independence required not just political sovereignty, but also a strong legal foundation that could protect the rights of all citizens. His passion for human rights permeated his writings, speeches, and legal practice, setting a precedent for future generations of activists and lawmakers in Ghana and beyond.”
A Lasting Symbol of Constitutionalism and Nationalism
For Egbert Faibille Jnr, Danquah’s influence extended beyond the legal domain into the broader landscape of constitutional and nationalist activism. “If the Bond of 1844 was what the British colonialists used as the basis for British jurisdiction over the Gold Coast, Dr. Danquah and the Gold Coast Youth Conference (GYC) had, by 1944, compelled Governor Sir Alan Cuthbert Maxwell Burns to acknowledge that the bond had reached its expected end. This assertion of sovereignty was foundational in the eventual attainment of independence.”
Hon. Irene Naa Torshie-Addo reflected on Danquah’s life as a beacon for Ghana’s youth, noting that his legacy imparts critical lessons on perseverance, integrity, and purpose. “Today’s youth can learn so much from the life of Dr. J.B. Danquah. Some of the endearing lessons they can draw from his experiences include never giving up on their dreams, never compromising on their convictions even in the face of power, aspiring to reach their full potential despite obstacles, and doing the right thing even if it means standing alone.”
A Grand Celebration of an Enduring Legacy
The upcoming launch event, expected to draw legal luminaries, academics, politicians, traditional leaders, and civil society actors, will serve as a moment of deep reflection on the principles he championed.
Under the auspices of Okatakyie Boakye Danquah Ababio, the current Twafohene of Akyem Abuakwa, this compendium will enshrine Dr. Danquah’s legacy in Ghana’s legal and political consciousness. His name will forever remain etched in the annals of our nation’s history, not just as a legal luminary but as a guiding light in Ghana’s unyielding pursuit of justice and democracy.
The commemorative compendium will be launched on March 9, 2025, at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church, Kyebi.