Ignatius Kutu Acheampong

Ignatius Kutu Acheampong (September 23, 1931 - June 16, 1979) served as the military head of state of Ghana from January 13, 1972, until July 5, 1978, when he was deposed in a palace coup. His rule marked a significant shift in Ghana's political landscape as he led a coup d'état to overthrow the democratically elected government of the Progress Party, and its leader, Dr. Kofi Busia. Acheampong's ascent to power came while he was the commander of Ghana's First Infantry Brigade.

Upon taking control, Acheampong became the head of state and chaired the National Redemption Council (NRC). Later, on October 9, 1975, the NRC evolved into the Supreme Military Council, with Colonel Acheampong promoted to General and continuing as its chairman. However, under this new military junta, Ghana faced various challenges, including escalating food prices and soaring inflation. To alleviate political pressure, Acheampong proposed a 'Union Government,' which involved power-sharing between civilians and the armed forces. This proposition led to student demonstrations and the closure of universities in Ghana, resulting in violent clashes between pro and anti-UNIGOV factions in Kumasi, causing casualties.

During Acheampong's rule, several historical changes and initiatives were introduced in Ghana. These included transitioning from the imperial to the metric system of measurement, changing the traffic rules from left-hand to right-hand driving in "Operation Keep Right," and launching programs like "Operation Feed Yourself" to promote self-reliance in agriculture and "National Reconstruction" to boost employment and worker skill development. His administration also initiated city face-lift projects and stadium reconstruction/upgrades to meet international standards. However, allegations of corruption were widespread during his tenure.

A few months after Acheampong seized power, on April 27, 1972, former Ghanaian President Kwame Nkrumah died in exile. Acheampong allowed Nkrumah's body to be returned and buried in Ghana, specifically in the village of his birth, Nkroful, on July 9, 1972.

Acheampong's rule ultimately came to a tragic end. He was court-martialed and executed by firing squad on June 16, 1979. This event followed a tumultuous period in Ghana's history, including the execution of other former heads of state and senior military officers after the 4 June military uprising. This uprising brought Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings and the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) to power, signaling a shift in the country's leadership. Ghana eventually returned to civilian rule in September 1979, three months after the uprising.

P.S. See first comment below for link to 96-year-old broadcaster Joe Lartey's interview on "Remembering General Acheampong"