Accra, Jan. 23, GNA - The family, friends, sympathizers, politicians and a cross-section of the public on Tuesday marked the ninth anniversary of the death of President Dr Hilla Limann. The occasion was also used to extol the virtues of the Former President described by friends and political opponents as incorruptible, strong and firm; an affable gentleman, father and husband. The family had a private and solemn remembrance for Dr Limann, who ruled from 1979 to 1981.
The family used Ecclesiastes 9:12 for the occasion. It reads: "Moreover, no man knows when his hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net; or birds are taken in a snare; so men are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them."
A statement released on behalf of the family by Dr Sulley Gariba urged Ghanaians to share in the reflection in commemorating 93this indelible date in the nation's history".
Dr Limann died at the age of 64 years at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital on January 23, 1998.
"Dr Limann's diplomatic and people-centred style of governance has become cherished attributes of our evolving democracy. The fact that today, our leaders are elected through the will of our people is testimony to the sacrifices the Former President and others made in nurturing democracy," the statement said.
As Ghana celebrates the 50th anniversary as an independent country, the family urged "the Ghana@50 Secretariat to remember and cherish all the leaders, who contributed and are still contributing to make the country proud and prosperous".
The family said preparations for the establishment of a Foundation dedicated to the vision and works of President Limann and for the advancement of democracy and development that he lived and died for, which started last year, would be completed soon.
According to the family the Foundation would be officially outdoored for the 10th anniversary next year and, thereafter, promote peace-building as a cornerstone for a stable democracy. It would also be used to foster education as an instrument for development and enhance the capacity of the youth to engage in local level democracy building.
Dr Limann was born on December 12, 1934 in Gwellu in the Upper West Region. He had his early schooling at Lawra and Tamale Teacher Training College and the London School of Economics and University of Sorbonne, France.
Before becoming President on the ticket of the People's National Party (PNP), Dr Limann served in the Foreign Service for many years with postings to Togo and Switzerland.
Dr Limann, who defeated Mr Victor Owusu of the Popular Front Party (PFP), in Election 1979, was overthrown in a coup led by the then Flight-Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings on December 31, 1981. 23 Jan. 07
