Progress Party (Ghana)

The Progress Party (PP) was a political party in Ghana, active during the Second Republic (1969-1972). It was founded and led by Kofi Abrefa Busia, who served as Prime Minister of Ghana during this period.

The PP's ideology was rooted in liberal democracy and economic liberalism, advocating for a mixed economy with a significant role for private enterprise. Key policy objectives included rural development, improved education, and promoting industrial growth through private investment.

The party came to power after winning the 1969 general election, defeating the National Alliance of Liberals (NAL) led by Komla Agbeli Gbedemah. The PP government embarked on various development projects but faced challenges including economic difficulties and rising inflation.

The Progress Party's government was overthrown in a military coup led by Colonel Ignatius Kutu Acheampong in January 1972, bringing an end to the Second Republic and the party's rule. Following the coup, the party was banned along with other political organizations.

The Progress Party is significant in Ghanaian history as it represented an attempt to establish a liberal democratic system following the authoritarian rule of Kwame Nkrumah's Convention People's Party (CPP). The ideals and legacy of the PP have continued to influence subsequent political movements and parties in Ghana, particularly those associated with the Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition.