NDC renames National Headquarters after Jerry John Rawlings
The National Democratic Congress has renamed its national headquarters after founder Jerry John Rawlings and unveiled a bust of the late former president during a ceremony held to mark what would have been his 79th birthday.
The event brought together party executives, founding members, Members of Parliament, and supporters who gathered at the party’s office in Accra to honor the man widely regarded as the architect of the NDC. Headquarters now bears Rawlings’ name
Party officials announced that the NDC’s national headquarters will now carry the name of its founder. The decision, party leaders said, is to preserve his legacy and remind future generations of his role in shaping Ghana’s democracy and the party’s values.
A bust of Jerry John Rawlings was also unveiled at the entrance of the office. The sculpture depicts the former president in his signature military attire, a look many Ghanaians associate with his years in power. Party leaders described the bust as a permanent symbol of his vision, discipline, and commitment to probity and accountability.
Birthday commemoration
The ceremony was timed to coincide with Rawlings’ 79th birthday. He died on November 12, 2020, at age 73. Speakers at the event reflected on his contributions to Ghana’s political history, from leading two military governments to transitioning the country into constitutional rule and serving as president under the Fourth Republic from 1993 to 2001.
NDC executives described Rawlings as a leader who spoke directly to the concerns of ordinary Ghanaians and pushed for fairness in governance. They said renaming the headquarters after him is one way to keep his ideals alive within the party.
Founding members present recalled his role in forming the NDC in 1992 and guiding it through its early years. They urged current and future party leaders to uphold the principles of social justice, equality, and service that he championed.
Legacy continues
The party used the occasion to call on members to remain united and focused as Ghana approaches future elections. Leaders said Rawlings’ example of bold leadership and connection with the grassroots should continue to inspire the NDC’s work.
The renaming and bust unveiling add to several other monuments and institutions across the country that bear Rawlings’ name, including streets, lecture halls, and community projects. Party officials said more programs will be held in his memory throughout the year to keep his legacy active in public discourse.
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