Former Minister of State Akwasi Opong-Fosu has called for renewed commitment to ethical leadership, institutional accountability and social justice, arguing that these values are essential to preserving the legacy of former President Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings.
He made the remarks during a memorial lecture held on Monday as part of activities marking what organisers described as the 79th birthday of the late former President and founder of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The event, organised by the NDC and the J.J. Rawlings Foundation under the theme “From Revolution to Fourth Republic: The Rawlings Legacy,” followed the official naming of the party’s national headquarters after Rawlings and the unveiling of a commemorative bust by President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking on the topic “Probity Has an Address: What the Rawlings House Demands From Us,” Opong-Fosu said Ghana’s democratic progress should be measured not only by regular elections but also by the strength of its institutions and the conduct of those entrusted with public office.
According to him, Rawlings’ most enduring contribution was guiding Ghana’s transition from military rule to constitutional democracy.
However, he argued that the country’s democratic journey remains incomplete if institutions are not supported by integrity and accountability.
He said Ghana must move beyond simply maintaining democratic structures to building a culture of personal and institutional responsibility.
Addressing inequality
Opong-Fosu also expressed concern about widening socio-economic inequality, warning that growing disparities could weaken the gains made under the Fourth Republic.
He said Rawlings consistently advocated for ordinary Ghanaians and argued that today’s political leaders must continue to prioritise policies that improve the lives of vulnerable citizens.
He further urged the NDC to strengthen its relationship with grassroots members, saying local party structures should remain central to the organisation’s growth and decision-making.
“A covenant of conduct”
Reflecting on the decision to name the party headquarters after Rawlings, Opong-Fosu said the move should represent more than a symbolic gesture.
He argued that the building should serve as a constant reminder of the standards of integrity, discipline and accountability that Rawlings expected from political leaders.
According to him, the significance of the headquarters would ultimately depend on whether those values are reflected in the actions of party officials and public office holders.
He also recalled Rawlings’ warning that the greatest threat to the NDC could come from the conduct of its own members, urging today’s leaders to demonstrate the principles the party’s founder stood for.
A broader message
Beyond commemorating Rawlings’ legacy, Opong-Fosu’s address centred on the future of governance in Ghana.
He argued that protecting democratic institutions requires more than constitutional structures, calling instead for leadership grounded in integrity, accountability and public service.
