Ghana leader pledges unity as party meets to endorse him

KUMASI, GHANA: Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama pledged to unite his party yesterday as thousands of supporters gathered for a congress expected to nominate him as its candidate for December elections.
The National Democratic Congress meeting came in the wake of president John Atta Mills' death in July, five months ahead of polls in which he was to seek re-election. Mahama, previously vice president, was sworn in to finish his term.
“The death of President Mills was unfortunate, but it has opened new doors of opportunities for the party to work hard towards the overall development of the country,” said Mahama, wearing a shirt with Mills' picture in tribute.
“I know there are disagreements within the party since we assumed power in 2008, but I pledged to ensure that there is unity in the party.
“I promise that the December elections will be peaceful for Ghana to continue to be the beacon of hope and democracy for Africa. As supporters of the party, I plead with you to be very vigilant during the elections but not to be violent.”
The party has been somewhat divided in recent years, and Mills had been challenged by ex-president Jerry Rawlings' wife for its nomination in a primary last year, though he eventually won easily.
Rawlings stirred controversy in Ghana in the days after Mills' death when he told a radio program the late president had been suffering from cancer and could only work a few hours a day.
Rawlings, who had been at odds with Mills in recent years despite Mills' previously serving as his vice president, spoke to Thursday's congress in support of Mahama.
“Your success will depend on how quickly you restore integrity into the presidency, government and the ruling party,” said Rawlings.
“I call on supporters home and abroad to join the campaign trail. You should not sit on the fence and expect to be appointed as government officials.”