By Ahmed AbuDalfa
Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the State of Palestine in Ghana
Although geography determines the distances between countries and peoples, it cannot limit the depth of relationships built on shared values and principles. From this perspective, Palestine looks upon its relationship with Ghana with pride and appreciation, given the shared historical experience of the two peoples in the struggle for freedom, independence and dignity, as well as the sincere solidarity that the Ghanaian people have demonstrated, over the decades, with the Palestinian people’s struggle and legitimate rights, and with the causes of liberation and justice around the world.
History has shown that the positions taken by states and leaders at decisive moments become part of the legacy by which they are remembered by generations to come. Interests may change and circumstances may shift, but positions that stand with principles, human rights and justice remain a lasting testament to those who uphold them.
This approach was clearly embodied in the vision of the late Ghanaian leader DR. Kwame Nkrumah, who believed that Ghana’s independence could not be complete unless other peoples were also free. He made support for liberation movements and opposition to colonialism an integral part of Ghana’s vision and its role in Africa and the world.
Successive Ghanaian leaders, from independence to the present day, have maintained principled positions on the causes of liberation and the right of peoples to self-determination. The Palestinian cause has remained a consistent part of this position, reflecting a deeply rooted tradition in Ghanaian policy based on support for freedom and justice and the rejection of colonialism and occupation.
In this context, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama stands out as a continuation of this proud Ghanaian legacy, through his principled and steadfast positions on issues of liberation, human rights and international justice. This has been particularly evident in his positions on the Palestinian cause, and in his affirmation of the Palestinian people’s right to establish their independent state and to live in freedom and dignity, his rejection of occupation, his call for the protection of civilians, and his demand for an end to the humanitarian tragedy endured by the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip as a result of the genocide, as well as his rejection of double standards in addressing the rights of peoples and the application of international law.
In Palestine, we highly value the clear and courageous positions of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, which are not only politically significant but also embody a profound humanitarian and moral dimension. We regard them as a natural continuation of the liberation traditions established by the late DR. Kwame Nkrumah, and of the role Ghana has long played in defending the right of peoples to self-determination, rejecting colonialism and occupation, and upholding international law and human rights.
From Accra, I extend my sincere appreciation to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama and to the Ghanaian people, leadership and citizens alike, for the sincere solidarity they have demonstrated with the Palestinian people, and for the way their positions represent an African voice affirming that freedom is not a privilege reserved for one people over another, that justice cannot be selective, and that politics, however complex its calculations may become, must remain rooted in values, principles and human dignity.
The legacy of DR. Nkrumah, the positions of successive Ghanaian leaders, and Ghana’s position today reaffirm that the causes of freedom and liberation know no geographical boundaries, and that a principled position can transcend distances to reach peoples struggling for their right to freedom and dignity.
The Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and to establish their independent state on their own land is an inalienable right. Ending the occupation and achieving the independence of the State of Palestine are fundamental prerequisites, grounded in international law, for achieving a just and lasting peace in the region.
From Ghana to Palestine, the message remains the same: Freedom is a right for all, and justice is indivisible and Palestine will be Free.