<<Print>>

It was something special to see former presidents of the Republic, J. A. Kufuor and Jerry John Rawlings walk into the Great Hall at the University of Ghana, side by side during the launch of the John A. Kufuor Foundation. The two political heavyweights who coincidentally entered the building at the same time were welcomed with a thunderous applause by all members invited. The two typically opposing political rivals were a symbol of unity as they were seated next to each other at the high table. Each reference to Mr. Rawlings by Mr. John A. Kufour drew massive cheers. The atmosphere in the great hall was charged with excitement as a result of seeing the two personalities at such proximity. Many noted personalities, such as the NPP flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo, former Chief of Staff, Kodwo Mpiani as well the NPP National Chairman, Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey were all present at the launch. Spokesperson for the one-time NPP leader, Frank Agyekum said the program progressed according to plan and was very successful. Later on this evening, dignitaries will gather at the State House for the launch dinner. A separate event will also be held in Kumasi on Wednesday September 21, where the John A. Kufuor Presidential Library and Museum at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology is to be based. Former President John Agyekum Kufuor earlier called on the Vice-President, John Dramani Mahama, to seek the "blessings" of the government on his proposed foundation. Former South African President, Thabo Mbeki and a former German President, Horst Koehler, accompanied former President Kufuor to the Castle, to announce the formal launch and the ground breaking ceremony for the Foundation. The Foundation, an initiative of former President Kufuor, consists of the John A. Kufuor Centre for Leadership, Governance and Development, to be based at the University of Ghana. The John A. Kufuor Presidential Library and Museum will, on the other hand be launched at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, on Wednesday September 21st.