President Rawlings appeals for absolute support for Mills

Accra, April 29, GNA - President Jerry John Rawlings On Saturday reiterated his confidence in the ability of Vice President John Evans Atta Mills to sustain and carry out the development agenda of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

President Rawlings, who was addressing the extraordinary delegates' congress of the party at Ho, urged members of the party, the media and the nation at large to support his candidature as President.

"Prof. Atta Mills needs support. Rally behind him as never before and push his development agenda. Unity and internal harmony within the party is very crucial", he stressed. President Rawlings said during his presidency, he tried to attract many noble people like Prof. Mills to become national leaders, but they understandably turned down the offer.

Prof. Mills, however, defied the dirt he was likely to be smeared with by the media and accepted the challenge. In view of this, President Rawlings appealed to the media not to malign Prof. Mills.

"As we prepare for transition, we should not transfer the Rawlings and NDC bashing to Prof. Mills. In all respect, the Prof. is not like me ... and may not be able to adjust to media character assassination.

"By all means, criticise him if warranted, but the language must be dignified and decent." On the issue of Prof. Mills' running mate, President Rawlings stressed that the choice was the prerogative of the presidential candidate, which must be exercised in consultation with the leadership of the party. Calling for an end to what he termed artificial ethnic differences in the party, President Rawlings said when the Vice President is chosen, the decision must be respected and "nothing must be done to muddy the waters".

Apparently referring to some internal wrangling, President Rawlings expressed the need to maintain unity within the party through fairness, justice, transparency and the creation of avenues for constructive criticisms.

President Rawlings lauded women in the party for their dedication and hard work towards rural development saying, "I will personally ensure that their voices are heard at levels of decision making both at the party and governmental levels".

On life after his Presidency, President Rawlings stressing on the word "when," said he was ready to play any role assigned to him by the party's constitution. "When, I say when and not if, I step down, I assure you that I will not be going anywhere. I have been receiving signals of invitation to help in international endeavours and have not turned down any of such offers.

"But I have made it clear that the security, advancement and development of my country comes first", he said to applause and laughter.