Personality
Dr. Hilla Limann served as the President of Ghana from September 24, 1979, to December 31, 1981. Born on December 12, 1934, in Gwollu, Upper West Region, he pursued higher education in Europe, obtaining a degree in political science from the London School of Economics, a diploma in French from the Sorbonne University, and a Ph.D. in political science and constitutional law from the University of Paris.
Political Career and Presidency
Before his presidency, Limann had a diplomatic career, serving as head of the Europe Desk at Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and as counsellor at Ghana’s Permanent Mission in Geneva. In 1979, following a coup led by Flight Lieutenant Jerry Rawlings, Limann was elected President on the People’s National Party (PNP) ticket, securing 62% of the vote in the second round. His administration faced significant economic challenges, including declining cocoa production and hyperinflation. Efforts to stabilize the economy included launching the Gold Endowment Fund and introducing new currency to curb inflation.
Overthrow and Later Life
On December 31, 1981, Limann was deposed in a coup led by Rawlings, who established the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC). Following the coup, Limann was arrested while attempting to leave Ghana.
He remained out of the political spotlight until 1992, when he founded the People’s National Convention and contested in the presidential election, securing 6.7% of the vote. Dr. Limann passed away on January 23, 1998, and was buried in his hometown, Gwollu.
Legacy
In September 2019, the Hilla Limann Foundation was launched to commemorate the 40th anniversary of his presidency. The foundation aims to promote human rights education, democratic values, and human development for the vulnerable.
Reference:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hilla_Limann
- https://www.therobinsonlibrary.com/history/africa/britishwest/ghana/limann.htm