A political marketer, Prof. Kobby Mensah, has thrown his support behind the decision to honour former President Jerry John Rawlings through the renaming of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) headquarters, describing the move as a fitting recognition of the late statesman’s immense contribution to the party and the nation.
Speaking on the controversy surrounding the honour via zoom interview on Kessben TV’s Digest show, Prof. Mensah said Rawlings played a central and irreplaceable role in the formation and growth of the NDC, making him deserving of such recognition.
According to him, the country took a long time to acknowledge the contributions of Rawlings, whom he described as a fearless and outspoken leader who never condoned wrongdoing, regardless of who was involved.
“Rawlings was not a people-pleaser. He spoke his mind and stood against wrongdoing irrespective of who was doing it,” he noted.
Prof. Mensah further stated that many Ghanaians came to appreciate Rawlings’ genuineness in the latter part of his life, with some even believing that his principles aligned more closely with opposition party at certain points.
He argued that while many individuals contributed to the establishment of the NDC, Rawlings remained the pivotal figure and the driving force behind the party’s identity and direction.
“In every major action, there is always a cardinal brain behind it. Rawlings was that central figure for the NDC,” he stressed.
The political marketer also revealed that Rawlings was known for shunning flamboyance and often rejected attempts to celebrate him during his lifetime, citing examples from institutions such as University of Develop Studies (UDS) he established with his seed fund.
Despite his modest nature, Prof. Mensah maintained that the late former President unquestionably deserves the honour being bestowed on him, even in death.
“Undoubtedly, he deserves the honour, even in his absence,” he concluded.
The renaming of the NDC headquarters after Rawlings has sparked public debate, with supporters arguing that it is a well-earned tribute to the party’s founder, while critics continue to question the timing and implications of the decision.
