The Dawn of the First Republic: Nkrumah’s Historic Entry into Parliament | Discuss Ghana

Four days after the Republic was declared, on July 5, 1960, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah attended the First State Opening of the Republican Parliament. This session marked the final severance of constitutional ties with the British Monarchy, as the Queen of England ceased to be Ghana's Head of State.

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Scenes from the 1960 State Opening

The transition was a masterclass in symbolic decolonization:

Lowering the Flag: As the last Governor-General, Lord Listowel, entered the Parliament building, the Governor-General’s flag was lowered for the final time, signaling the end of the colonial representative's role.

The Presidential Arrival: Dr. Nkrumah arrived in an open-top car, escorted by mounted troops and greeted by the rhythmic beating of traditional drums.

The Guard of Honour: Nkrumah, now the first President of the Republic, inspected a smart Guard of Honour formed by the Ghana Army before entering the chamber to deliver his address.

National Dress: In a departure from Westminster traditions, many dignitaries and members of the National Assembly attended the session in traditional Ghanaian attire, asserting a new cultural identity.