President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has bid an emotional farewell to Ghanaians, expressing his heartfelt gratitude for the support and trust they’ve placed in him throughout his eight-year presidency.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reassured Ghanaians of a peaceful, free, and fair electoral process in the upcoming general elections. Speaking at the grand durbar in Anloga, Volta Region, to conclude the 2024 Hogbetsotso Za celebrations, he emphasized Ghana’s commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law .
“I will leave office as the President as required by the Constitution and I will hand over the baton to whoever the people of Ghana choose to lead them,” affirmed Nana Akufo-Addo.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo emphasized the robust measures in place to guarantee a seamless and transparent electoral process.
He praised the people of Anlo for their dedication to preserving their vibrant cultural heritage at an event themed “Strengthening Bonds and Embracing Our Shared Heritage.” He specifically recognized the outstanding leadership of Togbe Sri III, the Awoamefia of Anlo, whose efforts have significantly contributed to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Ghanaians for their unwavering love and guidance throughout his administration. He acknowledged that their support has been instrumental in his government’s numerous achievements, showcasing the power of unity and collective effort in driving Ghana’s progress.
Togbe Sri III, the Awoamefia of Anlo, expressed gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his dedication to developing Anlo through various projects. Specifically, he hoped for the swift completion of crucial initiatives such as the Keta Harbour, coastal protection, and the dredging of Keta Lagoon.
Togbe Sri III also emphasized the importance of unity and peace among the people of Anlo, especially with elections approaching. He urged them to exercise their civic duties with patriotism and unity, promoting a harmonious and constructive environment.
Awadada Agbesi Awusu II, the War Lord of Anlo, highlighted the significance of Hogbetsotso in fostering unity among the Anlo people. He noted that the festival’s ability to bring together chiefs from various regions demonstrates its power in promoting national cohesion.
Awadada Agbesi Awusu II also joined other leaders in urging Ghanaians to reject violence in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the importance of peaceful democratic processes.
The Hogbetsotso festival, celebrated annually on the first Saturday in November, holds great cultural and historical significance for the Anlo people . It commemorates their migration from Notsie in present-day Togo and serves as a reminder of their resilience and unity. The festival features various ceremonies, including peace-making periods, purification rituals, and a grand durbar of chiefs and people.
The recent Hogbetsotso festival was a grand celebration, welcoming esteemed guests, including Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III, New Juabenhene, and Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, Omanhene of Oguaa and President of the Oguaa Traditional Council. These respected leaders emphasized the importance of cherishing national unity above all else, urging Ghanaians to prioritize harmony and cohesion ¹.
The event also saw the presence of chiefs and queens from neighboring Togo, honoring the historic exodus of the Anlo people’s ancestors from Notsie in Togo.
This remarkable journey, which took place centuries ago, was a brave escape from the oppressive rule of King Agorkoli, ultimately leading to the Anlo people settling in their current home.