The National Democratic Congress (NDC) marked the 78th birthday of its founder, the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, with a solemn ceremony emphasising his enduring principles of probity, accountability and democratic governance. 

The event, held on Sunday, was attended by party leaders, family members and dignitaries who reflected on Rawlings’ legacy, according to a statement released by the Office of Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings (rtd).

NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia stressed the need for Ghana to adopt Rawlings’ values as a national code of conduct. Quoting from the office’s press release, Nketia reiterated: “There is no country that has developed without national values. Today, for us in NDC, we have something to talk about. But if you ask the nation, as a Ghanaian, what are our aspirations, what represents our code of conduct, we do not have.”

The Chairman highlighted Rawlings’ unwavering stance on accountability, noting that the late leader demanded transparency not just in finances but in all positions of authority. “If it is a position of authority that you have been assigned, remember that there will be a day that you have to explain and account to the citizens how you use that authority,” Nketia stated, echoing the Office’s tribute to Rawlings’ governance ethos.

The event also celebrated Rawlings’ principle of “positive defiance,” with Nketia urging Ghanaians to courageously challenge wrongdoing. “If your senior is making a mistake, you must stand up and state that such an action is wrong,” he said, a sentiment underscored in the Office’s release.

Kimathi Agyeman-Rawlings, representing the Rawlings family, paid homage to his father’s legacy of inclusive governance, referencing the establishment of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies under the 1992 Constitution. “His leadership has left an indelible mark on our national history,” Kimathi said, aligning with the Office’s description of Rawlings’ enduring impact.

NDC General Secretary Fifi Kwetey described Rawlings as a leader whose “heart loved people, loved his country, and loved humanity,” a reflection of the Office’s portrayal of his humanitarian ideals. The ceremony concluded with a call for Ghana to reset its moral compass, inspired by Rawlings’ vision.

The event was attended by former Chief of Staff Nana Ato Dadzie, Council of Elders members, and other dignitaries, all united in honouring Rawlings’ legacy as articulated by his Office.

See photographs from the event below;