The former president, Jerry Rawlings says he has not declared support for anybody interested in leading the NDC in the 2008 presidential elections as yet.

He says his desire is for a committed and competent party faithful to lead the party to victory in the next elections.

Publications in sections of the media suggested that the former president prefers the much-publicised candidature of one of his former ministers, Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, to two-time runner, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills. Other reports suggested that there are moves to pair Dr. Spio-Garbrah and former first lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings.

But a statement issued by special aide to the former president, Victor Smith describes the publications as complete fabrications and diversionary tactics adopted by pro-NPP media houses and the government in the face of crumbling fortunes of the Kufuor administration.

Mr. Rawlings calls on supporters of the NDC and the public to ignore the reports.

He also used the opportunity to thanks all those who sympathized with him and his wife Nana after their near fatal accident in Johannesburg, South Africa, a few weeks ago.

Rawlings: Reports about my support for candidates for flag bearer are fabrications

Accra, May 8, GNA - Former President Jerry Rawlings on Monday described reports that he was supporting certain people to contest as flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as "fabrications". ".He has not by word or deed indicated his preference for any person as yet," a statement signed by Mr Victor Smith, Special Assistant and Director of Public Affairs of the Former President said.

The Former President, who is also the founder of NDC, said his desire and prayer was for a committed and competent person to be elected to lead the Party to victory in Election 2008 which Ghana deserved at this time.

The Former President Rawlings thanked all those who in various ways wished him and his wife well after their motor accident in South Africa a few weeks ago.