Former President Jerry John Rawlings has urged President-elect Nana Akufo-Addo to unite all Ghanaians including members of other parties who lost in the December 7 polls.

This was contained in a congratulatory message from the former president to Mr Akufo-Addo, released on Saturday, December 10.

“I commend you for committing to be a leader for all Ghanaians in your acceptance address. The onus is on you to pursue a leadership that unifies the people so members of the losing side have no reason to feel insecure,” urged Mr Rawlings, who ruled Ghana from 1981 until 2000.

Ghana’s Electoral Commission on Friday night declared Mr Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) winner of the presidential election two days after close of polls 5:00pm Wednesday.

For Mr Rawlings, the “victory is a manifestation of the people’s desire for new leadership and comes with enormous responsibilities including a commitment to pursue an anti-corruption drive across the board”.

He pointed out: “Ghana faces huge challenges, many of which you promised to tackle during your campaign tours. You have been elected as president because the electorate believes you have the ability to confront these challenges and lead the country with fearlessness, humility and honesty.

“I wish you the best of luck as you prepare to assume the mantle of leadership. God bless you and our homeland Ghana.”