Accra, July 17, GNA - The National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Monday described the late Mr Justice Daniel Francis Annan as the foundation of Ghana's current democratic dispensation.

"He was one of the pillars of the NDC. He gave political direction in facilitating democratic practice and was a fair-minded Speaker of Parliament."

Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia, General Secretary of the NDC, said in an interview with the GNA on the death of Mr Justice Annan that, as a Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) Member he devoted his time to work towards the development of democracy and was even responsible for the peaceful and orderly transition from one political order to another.

"A research has shown that Mr Justice Annan's second term of office as a Speaker was yet to be equalled. Parliament was at its best during the second tenure of Justice Annan's tenure of office", Mr Asiedu Nketia said.

He said the NDC would give him a fitting tribute and that his place in history was preserved.

Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, Former Defence Minister in the NDC Government described Justice Annan as a man, who worked for the welfare of others and served his country loyally in various capacities. He said the greatest tribute that Ghanaians could pay to him for his contribution towards peace and democracy in Ghana was to ensure that democracy endured.

Mr Felix Owusu Adjepong, Majority Leader and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, said Mr Justice Annan's death was a great loss to the country and that they would have taken advantage of his presence during the 50th anniversary of Ghana's independence.

He said Justice Annan was always focused and he ensured that the Executive and Legislature cooperated and that he 'believed in the cooperation of powers rather than separation of powers.

"He always stood for consensus knowing that the country has a lot of problems that could be overcome in unity.

"It was admirable how he handled the issue of retaining Ministers, who were to take ministerial appointments without going through vetting" he said.