Late in 2023, Ghanaians began reporting the sighting of billboards displaying masked men and the phrase, “#TheNewForce“. These billboards caused a great deal of controversy on social media and throughout Ghana, leading people to ask more questions about the individual behind the mask. The majority of citizens and media personalities associated it with a new political party since elections are fast approaching in December 2024.
The Convention
On the 7th January 2024, the convention which was slated to occur at the Black Star Square was cancelled by the Government of Ghana on the same day.
According to Nana Kwame Bediako, the face behind The New Force, the Convention draws inspiration from past great leaders of the 1960s, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. This event was intended to educate, motivate, and inspire the youth and leaders as well as to discuss national governance, continental governance, and the future of Africa.
While some may argue as to why the event was canceled, the statement issued by the Office of the President of Ghana revoking with immediate effect the more-than-a-month-old permission it had already granted stated the reason as an unforeseen State event scheduled at the same time and place. A number of people disagreed with this reason, sparking other speculations, including that the convention had a political motive. Following the unveiling of the banners of The New Force, billboards featuring Nana Kwame Bediako, otherwise known as Cheddar or Freedom Jacob Caesar, have been erected urging Ghanaians to vote for him in the 2024 presidential election.
New Era
Overthrowing power is not a new phenomenon in Africa. Although Africa has historically hosted the most successful coups and changes of power, it seems things are going differently this time around. Recently, we have seen coups in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Gabon. Across Africa, we are witnessing the rise of young leaders such as Julius Malema 42, Ibrahim Traore 36, Assimi Goïta 41, Bobi Wine 41 and Nana Kwame Bediako 43. The question is is this real change or another power struggle from power hungry individuals who are using change in Africa as a selling point for power?