Nat’l Tymes News Desk
PRESIDENT John Dramani Mahama has called on members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Ghanaians to uphold the values of service, sacrifice, justice and patriotism championed by the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.
Speaking at the 79th birthday commemoration of the NDC founder and the official naming of the party’s headquarters after him in Accra on Sunday, President Mahama described the occasion as a day of remembrance, gratitude and renewal.
The event also featured the unveiling of a bust in honour of the late statesman, whom President Mahama credited with helping to shape Ghana’s democratic journey and laying a strong foundation for the NDC.
According to him, the ceremony was not merely about renaming a building or unveiling a monument, but about preserving history and ensuring that future generations understand the sacrifices made to build the party and protect Ghana’s democracy.
“As we name this party office after Rawlings and unveil his bust in his honour, we celebrate a legacy that extends beyond one individual,” he said.
“We celebrate a tradition of service, a commitment to justice, the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism, and the enduring values that continue to guide our party and inspire our youth.”
President Mahama noted that strong political traditions and institutions are built on the dedication of men and women who place national interest above personal gain.
He said former President Rawlings, together with many patriots, worked tirelessly under difficult circumstances to advance social justice, democratic governance, national development and the empowerment of ordinary citizens.
The President stressed that the greatest tribute the NDC could pay to its founder was to remain united and continue strengthening the institutions he helped build.
“Let us remain focused on our shared mission to serve the Ghanaian people. The best tribute we can pay to those who built this tradition is to preserve its unity and strengthen its institutions,” he stated.
President Mahama further urged party members not to dwell solely on past achievements but to use the lessons of history as motivation for greater accomplishments.
“History teaches us where we have come from and helps us understand where we need to go. But while we honour our past, we must never become prisoners of the past. The true purpose of remembering history is to inspire future achievements,” he said.
He added that the responsibility of the current generation is to build on the foundation laid by Rawlings and other party pioneers, while working towards a stronger NDC and a better Ghana for future generations.
President Mahama also congratulated the NDC National Chairman, General Secretary, Council of Elders and party members for organising what he described as a historic event in honour of a leader whose legacy continues to inspire many Ghanaians.
Source: Nationaltymes.com
