Buhari mourns Rawlings, says Africa will ‘sorely miss’ him

PRESIDENT Buhari has extended his heartfelt condolences to government and people of Ghana over the passing of the country’s former President, Jerry Rawlings at 73.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, the President affirmed that the entire African continent will sorely miss the deceased’s sterling qualities.

.The statement titled, ‘President Buhari mourns Jerry Rawlings, says great loss to Africa,’ read, “President Muhammadu Buhari sends heartfelt condolences to government and people of Ghana over passing of the country’s former President, Jerry Rawlings, 73, affirming that the entire African continent will sorely miss the sterling qualities of the great leader.

“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 interdependency 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.”