Accra, May 1, GNA - Rain and still winds stole their way into this year's May Day celebration but did not deter a President who was billed to take his last salute from Ghanaian workers to do just that.

President Rawlings did not only welcome the rain describing it as a blessing but stood in it uncovered and endured workers' screams of frustrations arising from the present economic hardships.

Security agents, who had built a barricade to keep the workers at bay, did not have much to do since the hard hinting raindrops took care of them. Indeed, President Rawlings had to invite hesitant workers to march because he would stay.

There was fun, humour and agitation for higher salary and better delivery of social services. A worker displayed four-meter long bathroom sandals, others had long and big pipes, but the spectators would for a long time remember the Cocobod man, who wore a necklace made up of a matured cocoa pod.

His fat belly was clearly visible because his attire was drenched. Some were clad in mourning cloth while others held placards, some of which read, "Don't increase the VAT rate," "Stop lying to workers."

President Rawlings in his speech had deplored their militant attitude saying: "Freedom is beautiful, but it should not lead to abdication of your responsibilities. "I have taken note of your demands but you have to be disciplined."

The President had come to the parade in a light calico shirt but ended up drenched.