The office of former President Jerry John Rawlings has debunked death rumors about him circulating in the media.

According to a statement signed by Kobina Andoh Amoakwa of the Communications Directorate of the former President’s office, Mr. Rawlings “takes a serious view of the recent false media and other online platforms purporting that he is deceased.”

“The office strongly cautions persons who have made it their preoccupation to publish such falsehood to desist from such reckless and insensitive actions as they have the potential of causing harm to family, friends and sympathisers of the former President. Persons responsible for such distasteful publications should recognize that they are liable to prosecution under the law if they are flushed out”.

Rawlings ruled Ghana for about two decades and handed over power to John Agyekum Kufuor in 2001 after an election.

Read full statement below:

May 15, 2017

Rawlings Office Takes Serious View Of Fake Reports

The office of former President Jerry John Rawlings takes a serious view of recent false reports on social media and other online platforms purporting that he is deceased.

The office strongly cautions persons who have made it their preoccupation to publish such falsehood to desist from such reckless and insensitive actions as they have the potential of causing harm to family, friends and sympathisers of the former President. Persons responsible for such distasteful publications should recognize that they are liable to prosecution under the law if they are flushed out.

Media personnel who want clarification on matters to do with the former President should contact our office whenever the need arises.

Thank you.

Signed:

Kobina Andoh Amoakwa
(Communications Directorate)