The President of the Republic of Gabon, His Excellency Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, on Thursday paid a solemn tribute to Ghana’s late former President, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, describing him as a distinguished African statesman, a patriot, and a champion of justice whose visionary leadership continues to inspire generations across the continent.
The wreath-laying ceremony took place at the Military Cemetery in Accra, forming a key part of President Nguema’s three-day official state visit to Ghana. The Gabonese leader, who arrived in Accra on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, is on a diplomatic offensive to strengthen bilateral relations and diversify partnerships across the continent.
A Tribute to a Pan-African Icon
President Nguema lauded Rawlings not only as a transformative leader for Ghana but as a symbol of African leadership, patriotism, and a deep commitment to continental development. He noted that Rawlings’ dedication to national development and advocacy for good governance continue to serve as a beacon for future generations.
“In this place of remembrance, I would like to hail the contribution of this great man to a strong Africa, a united Africa, resolutely turned towards its own development,” President Nguema said.
The Gabonese leader also highlighted the profound influence of Rawlings’ speeches and writings, particularly on governance and political transitions, stating they directly contributed to Gabon’s own recent transition process. He further emphasized that Rawlings’ guidance has shaped and strengthened Gabon’s anti-corruption policies.
A Personal and Political Inspiration
In a poignant moment, President Nguema credited Rawlings as a direct inspiration for Gabon’s “Liberation Coup” on August 30, 2023, which ended the decades-long rule of the Bongo family. He quoted Rawlings’ famous assertion on the duty of the military: “When the people are crushed by their leaders, with the complicity of the judges, it is up to the army to give them their freedom”. The Gabonese leader noted that this philosophy aligns with Gabon’s new constitutional limits on presidential terms and its fight against corruption.
A Family’s Gratitude and a Symbol of Unity
The Rawlings family was represented at the ceremony by the late President’s daughter, Madam Yaa Asantewaa Rawlings, who expressed the family’s deep appreciation.
“Thank you for reminding us that diplomacy is not only about relations between nations but also about honouring those whose legacy continues to inspire generations,” she said.
The Executive Director of the J.J. Rawlings Foundation described the gesture as a moving affirmation of the enduring camaraderie between the peoples of Ghana and Gabon—a friendship nurtured by shared Pan-African solidarity. “May this wreath stand as a symbol that the baton of brotherhood has been passed to the present generation of leaders in Ghana and Gabon,” the Foundation stated.
Honoring Ghana’s Founding Father
Earlier in his visit, President Nguema also paid homage to Ghana’s first President and Pan-African icon, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, by laying a wreath at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra. President Nkrumah’s mausoleum, a site dedicated to the father of Pan-Africanism, was itself inaugurated in 1992 by President Rawlings.
The visit has also seen the signing of two major bilateral agreements between Ghana and Gabon, focusing on diplomatic training and enhanced political consultation.
Background: The Legacy of Jerry John Rawlings
Jerry John Rawlings (born June 22, 1947) was a towering and complex figure in African politics. He first came to power via a military coup in 1979, before handing over to a civilian government. He seized power again in 1981 and ruled as Head of State until 2001, making him Ghana’s longest-serving leader. He transitioned Ghana to a constitutional democracy, being elected president in 1992 and serving two terms until 2001. Known for his populist fervor and moral campaign against corruption, he brought government closer to ordinary citizens through institutions like the People’s Defence Committees. He passed away on November 12, 2020, at the age of 73.
