Kwakye Ofosu Defends Removal Of Big Six From Ghana’s New Cedi Notes

Felix Kwakye Ofosu has pushed back against criticism over the absence of most members of Ghana’s Big Six from the newly unveiled Heritage Series banknotes, arguing that no historical personality is entitled to remain on the country’s currency indefinitely.

The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications made the remarks during an interview on Metro TV on Friday, November 13, 2026, monitored by GhanaWeb.

His comments come a day after President John Dramani Mahama unveiled the new Ghana Cedi Heritage Series on November 12. The redesigned notes feature eight prominent Ghanaians recognised for their contributions to the country’s history, culture and development.

The decision has attracted public discussion because most members of the Big Six, who have appeared on Ghanaian currency for years, are no longer featured in the new series. The exception is Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President, who remains among the personalities represented.

Responding to the concerns, Kwakye Ofosu described the controversy as insignificant and suggested that some of the criticism was rooted in political considerations and an expectation that certain historical figures should remain permanently represented on the notes.

“They are not significant issues, trust me. Apart from sulking about not having the Big Six, I don’t see what the issue is. Nobody owes anybody any permanent fixture on the currency,” he said.

He also argued that the Big Six had already enjoyed a lengthy period of representation, having appeared on Ghana’s currency for close to two decades.

According to him, the personalities featured on banknotes have changed over the years, pointing to earlier figures such as Yaa Asantewaa who had also appeared on the country’s currency.

“The Big Six have had their day. They’ve been on the currency for close to 20 years. Before that, there were the likes of Yaa Asantewaa and co on the currency,” he added.

The minister maintained that the Bank of Ghana has the authority to determine which personalities should appear on the national currency and make changes when necessary.

He dismissed the objections as an issue fuelled by what he described as petty politics and an entitlement mentality.

The debate over the new notes has continued since their unveiling, with questions being raised about the selection of personalities and the historical representation reflected in the Heritage Series.

Source: https://x.com/theghanaweb/status/2121213628497932550?s=46

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