The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the J.J. Rawlings Foundation are set to jointly commemorate what would have been the 79th birthday of Ghana’s former President and revolutionary leader, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, on Monday, June 22, 2026.
Organised under the theme “From Revolution to Fourth Republic: The Rawlings Legacy,” the commemorative programme will bring together scholars, former government officials, party faithful, and members of the public to reflect on Rawlings’ enduring impact on Ghana’s political and democratic history.
The centrepiece of the day’s events will be a lecture and exhibition held at the auditorium of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, located near the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Accra. The programme is scheduled to commence at 4:00 pm.
Renowned Ghanaian academic and legal luminary Tsatsu Tsikata will deliver the keynote address.
Tsikata, one of Ghana’s most distinguished lawyers and a figure deeply associated with the Rawlings era, is expected to offer a substantive reflection on the former leader’s political philosophy and constitutional legacy.
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Joining Tsikata on the day’s programme are two other notable Ghanaian public figures with deep roots in Rawlings-era governance.
Dr. Akwasi Opong Fosu, a former Minister for Local Government and current Board Chairman of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, will add his voice to the tribute. Also speaking will be Kofi Totobi Quakyi, who served as a former Minister for both Information and National Security and currently chairs the Board of Ghana Gas.
The organisers have extended a broad invitation to the general public, NDC party members, supporters, and cadres to attend both events and join in honouring the life and legacy of Flt Lt Rawlings — a figure who remains central to Ghana’s revolutionary and democratic narrative.