Accra, April 29, GNA - President Jerry John Rawlings on Saturday asked persons, who have left the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) to form their own parties and movements, to return and join in achieving the party's vision for the country.

He said they would not be considered as "prodigal sons" neither would they be treated with contempt, as many might think. President Rawlings, who was ostensibly referring to the National Reform Party (NRP) as well as cadres and other people disillusioned with the NDC's rule and, therefore, left, was speaking at a one-day national delegates' congress of the NDC at Ho.

It was the last time that he was addressing the party congress in his capacity as President. President Rawlings sounding like a father, who had forgiven his erring children said: "The NDC is your home. Come back home. This is your home, return to your home".

He is the father and founder of the NDC and would continue to participate in its activities. President Rawlings' second four-year term of office ends in December when the nation goes to the polls to elect a new President. Former stalwarts of the NDC broke off to form NRP about two years ago.