Former South African President Nelson Mandela has lauded former President Jerry Rawlings, describing him as one of Africa's remarkable role models that have brought honour and pride to the continent.

In a letter to Flight Lieutenant Rawlings (rtd), he wrote: "Your star performance as leader of the republic of Ghana was legendary, and clearly distinguished you as a powerful and dynamic personality who came to command respect and admiration in many parts of the world."

Flt. Lt. Rawlings bowed out on January 7 after supervising a smooth transition in which his chosen successor, former Vice President John Atta Mills lost to Mr John Agyekum Kufuor. Mr Mandela said for a young flight lieutenant to have planned and staged a successful coup in a country ruled by corrupt and pitiless tyrants showed peerless courage and determination.

"Your decision to acknowledge and highlight the achievements of Dr Kwame Nkrumah and to uproot all forms of corruption encouraged enlightened opinion makers far and wide. "I might add that few leaders in history, who had seized power by undemocratic means, have been willing to submit themselves to democratic elections.

"That monumental decision on your part went a long way in silencing and even discrediting your detractors." Mr Mandela said equally significant is the fact that Flt. Lt. Rawlings' contribution to world and regional organisations was just as impressive. "Many decision makers will miss your wise advice as you take your well deserved rest."