Politics of Thursday, 1 January 2015

Source: GNA

31st December revolution relevant - Portuphy

Mr Kofi Portuphy, National Chairman of National Democratic Congress, on Wednesday said the celebration of the 31st December revolution is still relevant despite the fact that it took place 33 years ago.

He said marking of the event always help the public, especially political leaders, to reflect soberly on principles of probity and accountability which was the main theme of the revolution.

Mr Portuphy said this at the wreath-laying ceremony to mark the 33rd anniversary of the revolution at the Revolution Square in Accra.

He said the revolution which occurred on December 31, 1981 finally led to the birth of the 1992 constitution, which has helped to entrench Ghana’s democracy.

“The 1992 constitution of Ghana, the free speech and our governance system were all made possible after the 31st revolution and it is imperative that such an occasion is always remembered,” he said.

He urged government to help strengthen the Ghana Armed Forces by providing them with the needed resources to enable them protect the democratic rule.

He also called on public officials to always reflect soberly on the principles of probity and accountability and desist from corrupt act.

Madam Sherry Ayittey, Minister of Fisheries and a senior Cadre member, said President John Dramani Mahama is committed to fight corruption.

She said as part of measures to fight corruption, President Mahama has directed all his Ministers to implement reports of the Auditor General by January 15, 2015.

She said, per the directives, decisions within the audited accounts are to be implemented.

At the ceremony, Mr Nii Laryea Afotey Agbo, Greater Accra Regional Minister laid a wreath on behalf of Ghanaians, Lieutenant Colonel Gbevlo Lartey, on behalf of the Security Services, Madam Sherry Ayittey on behalf of the Cadre Corps and King Odaifio Welentsi III, Paramount Chief/President of Nungua Traditional Council laid on behalf of traditional rulers.

Mr Porturphy lit the perpetual flame as former President Jerry John Rawlings is reported to have travelled outside the country.