New tema-Aksosmbo road commissioned

June 10, 1999

Accra - A very significant event in road development took place in Ghana last Monday. The link road between Tema and Akosombo and by extension the Volta Lake region was commissioned by President Rawlings.

The NDC government certainly deserves some pat on its back for the completion of this project. But whilst we stop on this note of commendation, we must continue to talk about another subject, the President's Uniform.

President Rawlings for this non-military event and occasion chose to wear a military uniform.

Every man has the right to choose what kind of dress to wear but certain occasions and ceremonies dictate a particular style or type of dressing and the commissioning of the Tema-Akosombo road could not be a good occasion for President Rawlings to flaunt his militarism on the nation.

Some may think this is not a subject worthy of any comment, but there is a message and signal in the constant wearing of his military past that signals a call to arms.

There must be a dividing line from which former soldiers, when they become elected civilian heads of state or political leaders, must assume the robes of a civilian Presidency.

Examples from other countries like Nigeria and the United States show how other high-ranking military officers have gracefully shed their military clothes to reflect the change in their situation and careers.

President George Bush and before him the more famous General Dwight Eisenhower were decorated soldiers. Both served in the Second World War, with General Eisenhower playing a pivotal role as a Commander.

Once these two ex-soldiers entered civilian life and became Heads of State and Commander-in-Chief of the US Army, they upheld the image of the new office.

General Olusegun is a good example of this transition. In spite of his exemplary record as a soldier, he today seeks through his dressing to reflect the new Nigeria.

Ghana is no more ruled by the military and no signs should point to the contrary.

If President Rawlings' wearing of military uniform last Friday is an extension of his personal celebration of June 4, it is a reminder the nation could do without.

It is our view that President Rawlings should endeavour in his last days to give credence to the aspiration of Ghanaians for sustained democracy through the ballot box.