The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has yet another feat to cheer about in the selection of its founder, former President Jerry John Rawlings as one of 3 Ghanaian leaders named among 50 iconic African leaders by British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) Focus on Africa Magazine Poll.

In a congratulatory statement, the party said, “The National Democratic Congress (NDC) wants to extend its congratulations to the party’s founder and former President of Ghana, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings on being voted among the list of Africa’s 50 most iconic figures.”

The statement which was signed by Mr. James Asante, the party’s director of communications, said “The NDC wishes to state that the former President’s inclusion in British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) Focus on Africa Magazine Poll is a vivid testimony of Africa and the World’s recognition of the invaluable role he played in the socio-economic and political emancipation of Africa, and which he continues to play.”

“It is not surprising that the BBC audience voted Flt. Lt. Rawlings, the late Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and Mr. Kofi Annan, former United Nations Secretary-General among the icons as their pedigree in Ghana and the global community posit them for the honor,” the statement pointed out. The also NDC recognised the revered status of its founder. The party stressed in its congratulatory statement that “We commend former President Rawlings and his colleague winners for being a part of BBC’s rare distinguished personalities of Africa as the Corporation celebrates its 50 years of Africa’s independence.” The party reaffirmed its confidence in the sterling leadership qualities of its founder in saying that “The NDC believes that Former President Rawlings’ fortitude and determination to pursue justice and equality for the liberation of the masses which are atypical qualities akin to an outstanding leader like him would be a source of inspiration to motivate Ghana and Africa as a whole.” “The global audience’s recognition for former President Rawlings, as portrayed in the votes that culminate in his selection, undoubtedly, not only brings added honor and respect to mother Ghana but, also brings to the fore the relentless role covertly played by the NDC founder to further deepen the country’s imprint on the zenith of the global map,” the party also stated.

The party concluded by stating that “The NDC and Ghana salute former President Rawlings as an African iconic figure on this occasion of BBC African Service celebration of 50 years of Africa independence. You are an inspiration.” The international recognition of the NDC founder as revealed again by the BBC poll brings once again to the fore the question as to the veracity of claims by some in Ghana that former President Rawlings deserves no recognition. Some political elements opposed to the NDC and former President Rawlings have been devastated by the news. They would have preferred former President John Agyekum Kufuor to be the one to attain the envious feat but the discerning audience of BBC decided otherwise.