Former Ghana president, Jerry Rawlings dies at 73

ACCRA, GHANA -Former President of Ghana,  Jerry Rawlings is dead. He was 73. Rawlings, one of Africa’s most charismatic leader died earlier today.

Born 22^nd June, 1947,  Flight Lieutenant Jerry Rawlins assumed power in 1979 following a military coup. He handed over power to a civilian regime and returned as Chairman of the Provisional National Defence Council, in December 31, 1981 and ruled Ghana till 1992 when he resigned temporarily, founded the National Democratic Congress(NDC) contested an election and was elected President.

Jerry Rawlings was re-elected in 1996  and he served until 2001.

During his tenure, Ghana went through a lot of radical transformations, criticized by human rights groups.   He is reputed for overseeing the execution of several former heads of state and army generals for corruption,  and former Supreme Court judges  though he  expressed regrets about the killings.

A week of national mourning has been announced in Ghana. Meanwhile, condolence messages have been pouring in from world leaders.

In his message, President Muhammadu Buhari said the entire African continent will sorely miss the sterling qualities of the great leader, Jerry Rawlings.

President Buhari believes the passion, discipline and moral strength that the former Ghanaian leader employed to reposition his country over many years continue to reverberate across the continent and beyond.

The President notes, with commendation, the unique role the former President played in strengthening political institutions in his country and Africa, stimulating the economy for sustainable growth, and vociferously championing the African cause by urging many leaders to work towards interdependence on the global stage, especially in areas of competitive advantage.

President Buhari joins family, friends and associates of the former Ghanaian leader in mourning his departure, assuring that the ideas that Rawlings postulated, particularly for development in Africa, and his sacrifices in working in various countries as an envoy for peace and democracy will always be remembered.

The President prays that the almighty God will grant the Ghanaian leader eternal rest, and comfort all his loved ones.