Why JJ Rawlings alone cannot be blamed for the killings of Acheampong, Afrifa, other military leaders - Historian explains

Historian and lawyer Yaw Anokye Frimpong has provided insights into the circumstances surrounding the execution of Ghana's former Head of State, General I.K. Acheampong.

According to him, former President Jerry John Rawlings should not be solely blamed for Acheampong's execution.

General Acheampong became Head of State after he led a coup against Prime Minister Busia in 1972, and implemented policies like "Operation Feed Yourself."

Despite initial popularity, his regime faced economic challenges, corruption, and public discontent.

Acheampong's proposal for a "Union Government" led to violent protests and his eventual ousting in 1978.

He was executed in 1979 after a brief trial by the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council which had seized power under the leadership of Flt. Lt Jerry John Rawlings.

However, Frimpong stressed that Rawlings was not the only figure behind the June 4, 1979 uprisings.

Speaking in an interview on Max TV, Frimpong explained that other officers were also involved in drafting the execution list that included Acheampong.

"Let's not put all the blame on Rawlings, that's the mistake we always make, I’m not a Rawlings fan. But he wasn't the only one who spearheaded the June 4, 1979 uprising.

“Captain Boakye and others were part of those who were responsible for drafting the execution list which included Gen I.K. Acheampong,” he said.

Giving a possible reason for his execution, Yaw Anokye Frimpong narrated how General Acheampong had requested the release of a group of individuals who had attempted a coup on medical grounds, a move that angered some officers in power.

This unpopularity, according to Frimpong, contributed to Acheampong's downfall and eventual execution.

“A group of people had attempted a coup and were imprisoned. Gen I.K. Achempong had gone to see them and had requested that they be taken home on medical grounds. Which some people did not like. So that could be one of the reasons why he became unpopular ultimately leading to his execution,” he said.

See the full interview below:



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