The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed shock at the demise of immediate past vice president Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur on Friday.

The party said after “respectful contact” was made with the family of their 2012 and 2016 vice presidential candidate, it was confirmed that “he has indeed passed on to eternal rest and glory”.

A statement issued by the party on Friday has directed all regional and constituency offices to have flags fly at half-mast.

A book of condolence has also been opened at the party’s headquarters in Adabraka.

“We respectfully invite party faithfuls, members of sister political parties as well as the general public to visit the NDC headquarters and sign the book of condolence in honour of the memory of a fallen gallant comrade and nationalist.”

Aside the directive as regards the flags, regional and constituency offices have been asked to open books of condolences, as well.

Mr Amissah-Arthur passed on Friday at the 37 Military Hospital, where he was rushed to after collapsing at a gym at Burma Camp.

“The late former Vice President was indeed a gem to the NDC and the nation and his departure shall surely leave a huge and yawning gap that we may find difficult to fill.”

It said a programme of activities will be put out in due course to pay “glowing and befitting” tribute to Mr Amissah-Arthur.

“May the soul of the late former vice president of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency Kwesi Bekoe Amissah-Arthur, find peaceful resting place in the solemn bosom of God Almithy,” the statement signed by Koku Anyidoho, acting as General Secretary, concluded.