Ghana today marks the 62nd Independence anniversary with a colourful parade in Tamale, the regional capital of the Northern Region.
The celebration uncharacteristically, is being marked far away from the capital, Accra, for the first time since Ghana gained Independence from Britain in 1957.
The celebration which is expected to be marked with the traditional march past by students and parade by the security agencies, is under the theme; Celebrating Peace and Unity.
It is expected to be attended by the President of Niger, Mohammadou Issoufou, who is guest of honour, the diplomatic corp, members of the Council of State, Ministers of State and people from all walks of life.
Reports received from Tamale indicates that the town is bubbling with activities in anticipation of the celebration which is expected to consolidate gains Ghana has made in promoting peace, especially in resolving the protracted Dagbon conflict.
Indeed, there is every reason why Ghanaians must celebrate the achievement of peace in that part of the country. Many years ago, the whole country started searching for peace for the area in the midst of a protracted chieftaincy conflict.
Many years ago, the entire country wondered how peace was going to be achieved.
Through perseverance and determination largely on the part of the Eminent Chiefs, governments and the people of Dagbon, peace has finally returned to the area.
It is, therefore, worthwhile celebrating the peace that has brought to an end, the Dagbon chieftaincy conflict.
But the Ghanaian Times would not want the celebration of peace and unity to be limited to Dagbon alone.
Indeed, as we celebrate the anniversary, we should reflect on all activities that are a threat to peace and security of the country and make a determined effort to bring them to an end.
In fact, 62 years ago, many did not contemplate the emergence of vigilantism in politics, contract killings, numerous chieftaincy disputes, activities of land guards and armed robbery.
Today, these activities have become national security nightmares which are threatening the peace and unity of the country.
The 62nd Independence Anniversary which is specifically dedicated to celebrating peace and unity, should therefore be used to tackle all the negative activities that threaten our existence.
We salute all Ghanaian on this special occasion and hope that the objectives behind moving the celebration to Tamale would be achieved.
We say happy anniversary to all Ghanaians and pray for peace and unity for all.
