Accra, Sept. 22, GNA- Former President Jerry John Rawlings has reminded Ghanaians to recognise the country's heroes and learn to give them their due within the socio-cultural climate. A statement he issued on the commemoration of the 100th birthday of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah in Accra on Monday, the former President said the ideals of the late Head of State could not be wished away. President Rawlings expressed sadness that throughout the years "some of the most gallant heroes of our nation building.have been relegated to the background, whilst undeserving and treacherous people have been undeservedly elevated.

"Today Nkrumah is eulogised by many across the world. In Ghana the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the Kwame Nkrumah Circle built prior to 1979 as well as the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, which was built during our era, are but a microcosm of the monuments in his honour," he said.

The former President expressed the hope that the national holiday in Nkrumah's honour would help re-kindle the nationalistic fervour, which was almost extinguished over the past eight years. President Rawlings said Kwame Nkrumah's strength of character in leading the liberation struggle and fighting colonialism was a great and commendable journey, adding: " The struggle against neo-colonialism and the negative side of globalisation is however proving to be a harder and more difficult battle."

"Ghana has seen political metamorphoses since December 31, 1982 - A journey started by Nkrumah in the 1950s but derailed by self-seekers who did not appreciate Nkrumah's vision and demonised every aspect of his leadership.

"What Ghana needs are bold leaders who have absolute faith, trust and respect for the judicial consciousness of our people. Leaders who believe in true justice and freedom. Leaders who believe in empowering the people as they fashion out policies that will improve their lot. Leaders who will create equal opportunities for wealth while ensuring that there is absolute probity and accountability. "As we celebrate Nkrumah today let us have unity of purpose as far as the socio-economic and socio-political development of Ghana is concerned."

The former President said the centenary anniversary should be used as a period of reflection "as we join hands in developing Ghana". President Rawlings said Nkrumah's ideals of unity for Africa had proven to be more relevant than before with the creation of powerful economic blocks in Europe, the Americas and Asia and called on African leaders to work seriously to give true meaning to the aspirations of Africans. 22 Sept. 09