This year’s event, which is sched­ule to take place at Koforidua, on the theme: ‘Our Democracy, Our Pride,’ would have as Special Guest of Honour, the President of Cote d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara.

A total of 21 contingents from various security agencies, and 11 contingents from schools in the region would participate in the parade, aside cultural displays by various groups.

The Director of Operation at the Presidency and Chairman of the National Planning Committee, Mr Lord Commey, who launched the anniversary said it was the turn of the region to host this year’s In­dependence Day celebration, after the President decided to rotate the event.

He stated that the celebration would project the region and the whole nation to the world.

Mr Commey said “120 Ambas­sadors and High Commission­ers, representing 120 countries, the Speaker of Parliament, 275 Members of Parliament, the Chief Justice, Supreme Court Justices, Former Presidents, John Agyekum Kuffour and John Dramani Mahama, as well as all the 32 Members of the Council of State, among other dignitaries would be present.”

He also indicated that President of the Eastern Re­gional House of Chiefs, Nene Sackite, Konor of Manya Krobo, and all 11 paramountcies in the region would be hosted.

Mr Jefferson Sackey, Chairman of Communication Committee, who unveiled the logo for the cele­bration, said there was the need for Ghana to safeguard its democracy, which has attracted many African countries.

He said the theme for the celebration was chosen to foster unity among the people as the country prepared for 2024 General Election.

The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Seth Ache­ampong, said that this year’s celebration was significant as it would commemorate the nation’s independence from colonial rule.

He reflected on progress the country has so far made, saying “we must work towards creating a more resilient economy through digitisation and innovative ap­proach.”

Mr Acheampong also said that the event would not only help boost the region’s local economy, but would help project its diverse and rich culture.

He stated that the Regional Co­ordinating Council would support the Planning Committee in order to ensure a successful 67th Nation­al Independence Day celebration in the region.

 FROM AMA TEKYIWAA

AMPADU AGYEMAN,