The ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially renamed its national headquarters in Accra as the “Jerry John Rawlings House” in honour of the party’s founder and former President, the late Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings.
The ceremony, held on Monday, June 22, formed part of activities commemorating what would have been the 79th birthday of the late leader and statesman.
President John Dramani Mahama joined the leadership and members of the party to grace the occasion, which attracted party faithful, government officials, and admirers of the late former President.
As part of the commemorative event, President Mahama unveiled a bust of Flt. Lt. Rawlings in recognition of his immense contributions to Ghana’s democratic development and political history.
Addressing the gathering, President Mahama paid glowing tribute to the late former President, describing him as a humble, selfless and patriotic leader who dedicated his life to the service of Ghana and the ideals of social justice.
Reflecting on Rawlings’ personality and values, President Mahama revealed that the late statesman had consistently rejected attempts to immortalise him through the naming of national monuments and facilities during his lifetime.
According to him, Rawlings preferred to be remembered for his principles, commitment to accountability, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians rather than through symbolic honours.
“He consistently declined proposals to name national monuments after him,” President Mahama stated.
He explained that the decision by the NDC to rename the party’s headquarters was intended to preserve and celebrate the enduring legacy and ideals that Rawlings stood for throughout his political career.
President Mahama further urged the public, particularly members and supporters of the NDC, to honour the memory of the late former President by upholding the values of probity, accountability, integrity, discipline and sacrifice.
He stressed that Rawlings’ influence transcended partisan politics, noting that his legacy remained deeply rooted in the pursuit of patriotism, social justice and national development.
Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings founded the National Democratic Congress and served as President of Ghana from 1993 to 2001 after leading the country as military leader during earlier periods of Ghana’s political history.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential political figures in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, Rawlings continues to command admiration among many Ghanaians for his role in shaping the country’s democratic governance.
The renaming of the NDC headquarters and the unveiling of the bust are expected to further cement his legacy within the party and Ghana’s political history.
By 1960news.com
