Don't repeat mistakes of the past- Rawlings

The former President Flt.Lt J.J Rawlings, has called on politicians and the country in general to use the death of two of Ghana's pioneer politicians as an opportunity to reflect on the nation's politics in order not to repeat mistakes of the past.

Referring to the death of Victor Owusu and Kojo Botsio as a great loss to the nation, former President noted that even though the two leaders were from opposing political parties, learning from their experiences would be vital for democracy in the country.

He said these when the family of the late Mr Kojo Botsio called on him to officially announce the veteran politician's death. Flt. Lt. Rawlings said Ghana, as a country, has been through a lot of pain in her efforts to build a solid foundation for democratic governance, which has gained international recognition.

He said the only way to maintain the peace and stability the country enjoys now is not to destroy the legacies of the past, since such an attempt would "wind back the clock of progress."

Flt. Lt. Rawlings expressed the hope that President Kufuor would improve upon the foundation laid by the former government to ensure economic, social and political advancement.

Paying glowing tributes to Mr Kojo Botsio, Flt. Lt. Rawlings urged the new administration as well as Ghanaians to come together to give him a befitting burial. He noted that it is regrettable that outstanding pioneers who joined hands with Dr Nkrumah to gain independence for Ghana are all passing away.

He said that the best tribute Ghana can pay them is to avoid politics that would endanger the peace and stability they fought for. The former Vice-President, Professor John Atta Mills, who was also present, described Mr Kojo Botsio as a politician who rose above partisan politics and was regarded as a father of the nation.

He expressed the former government's condolences to the family and assured them of their support in the preparations towards a befitting burial. The former Minister of Interior, Nii Okaija Adamafio, who described Mr Botsio as an inspirer for up and coming politicians, urged the CPP to use the death of their patriot to revamp their party.

The spokesman for the family, Nana Kwaku Amoa Awuah, described the late Kojo Botsio as a statesman who had left a legacy of patriotism and dedication to the nation. He said his death is not only a loss to the family but the nation as a whole.