“The Government and people of Ghana, First Lady Rebecca and I are deeply saddened by the news of the death, in Berne, Switzerland, of one of our greatest compatriots, Mr. Kofi Annan.” This was contained in a statement signed and issued by the president of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in Accra this morning, August 18, 2018.
President Akufo-Addo in the statement copied to gbcghanaonline said: “I extend, on behalf of the entire Ghanaian nation, our sincere, heartfelt condolences to his beloved widow, Nane Maria, and to his devoted children, Ama, Kojo and Nina, on this great loss. I am, however, comforted by the information, after speaking to Nane Maria, that he died peacefully in his sleep.”
“Consummate international diplomat and highly respected former Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Kofi Annan was the first from sub-Saharan Africa to occupy this exalted position. He brought considerable renown to our country by this position and through his conduct and comportment in the global arena. He was an ardent believer in the capacity of the Ghanaian to chart his or her own course onto the path of progress and prosperity. Undoubtedly, he excelled in the various undertakings of his life, leaving in his trail most pleasant memories. His was a life well-lived.” The statement said.
“I have directed that, in his honour, Ghana’s national flag will fly at half-mast across the country and in all of Ghana’s diplomatic missions across the world, from Monday, 20th August, 2018, for one week.”
Rest in perfect peace, Kofi. You have earned it. God bless.
Also Ghana’s Vice President Dr. Mahamadu in series of tweets described Mr. Kofi Annan as a selfless man who was always driven by the burning desire to help humanity, especially the marginalised and underprivileged.
I have learnt, with great sorrow, the passing of international diplomat and statesman, H.E. Bosumuru @KofiAnnan.
He was a selfless man who was always driven by the burning desire to help humanity, especially the marginalised and underprivileged. pic.twitter.com/rHsGJv8Oui
— Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (@MBawumia) 18 August 2018
His contributions to the cause of world peace, as well as his wide range of interests and intellectual depth marked him as a titan among his fellows.
His life will continue to be a testament to all. The world, especially Ghana, has indeed lost a gem.
— Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (@MBawumia) 18 August 2018
I pray that God grants his wife and children the strength and fortitude in these trying times.
May the soul of the venerable statesman rest in perfect peace.
— Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (@MBawumia) 18 August 2018
The Former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan died in Switzerland, Saturday morning after a short illness.