Rawlings tasks United States to re-examine multiparty democracy

Former President, Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings, has commended the United States (US) for its contribution and commitment to supporting the fight against terrorism in Nigeria and some of its neighbouring countries.

At a meeting with the outgoing United States Ambassador to Ghana, Gene Cretz, he also wondered if the US would re-examine the practice of multiparty democracy in some parts of the world, especially in Africa.

At the meeting last Tuesday, the former President said the US’ announcement of a five-million dollar pledge to help fund a multinational force to combat “the slaughter-heads” (Boko Haram) was very commendable.
He also thanked Ambassador Cretz for his service in Ghana.

Ambassador Cretz is returning to the US on retirement, having served in Ghana since August 2012.
The US ambassador suggested that Ghana’s political dispensation required reforms and supported discussions raised by civil societies on the winner-takes-all concept.

He indicated that it was time to move on to the next stage of Ghana’s political evolution.
President Rawlings and Ambassador Cretz also discussed issues on the global front, including the political situation in Egypt, as well as the US’ role and responsibility as a global power.

Present at the meeting were Robert Carlson, the Political Chief at the American Embassy, former Foreign Minister, Victor Gbeho and Nana Fredua Manuh, an investment consultant.