Residents of Sekondi-Takoradi express mixed feelings at 63rd Independence celebrations

A cross-section of residents in the Western Region have expressed mixed feelings about the 63rd Independence Anniversary celebrations.

In a random sampling, most of the respondents Daniel Kaku spoke to, commended the torch bearers of Ghana's Independence but added that much had not been done since the overthrow of the first Republic.

A Senior Citizen who attended the function at the Jubilee grounds, told this Reporter that most of the factories established by the first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah collapsed after the military junta took over in the infamous coup plot.

According to him, Ghana could be economically viable by now if those industries were taken care of by successive governments.

He called on government to revive the industries set up by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah under the one District one Factory philosophy.

Another citizen who gave his name as Kofi Nuamah said although successive governments after the overthrow of Dr. Nkrumah had done their bit, much needed to be done to propel the nation towards economic transformation.

Mr. Nuamah said at 63,Ghana must be self reliant and urged President Nana Akufo Addo to make the Ghana Beyond Aid policy, a reality.

He was not too happy that at 63 Ghana's apron strings were still tied to the colonial masters.

He called for transparency, probity and accountability in national affairs to ensure judicious use of the country's natural resources to better the living conditions of Ghana.

The Western Regional Minister, Mr. Okyere Darko-Mensah earlier took the salute from a contingent of 920 school children and security forces led by parade Commander, Major Daniel Whajah Nviddah.

The Regional Minister said in spite of the gains made so far, Ghana was still bedevilled with some problems and assured Ghanaians that government remains committed to address their problems.