The JJ Rawlings Foundation has called for renewed discipline and commitment to uphold the values of the June 4 Uprising in 1979 as Ghana marks its 46th anniversary.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Accra, the Foundation described the 1979 Uprising as a pivotal moment in Ghana’s socio-political history, borne out of widespread corruption, economic hardship, and political instability.
Quoting late President Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings, the Foundation underscored June 4 as “a force that cannot be erased” and a symbol of probity, accountability, justice, and people’s power.
The Foundation urged Ghanaians to honour the memory of those who sacrificed for the revolution by remaining steadfast in the ideals it represents.
“For those of us living, let us remember that the survival of the ideals of probity and accountability are dependent on us” it said.
Highlighting its ongoing efforts to preserve the legacy of Rawlings, the Foundation noted its environmental sustainability initiatives, including a nationwide tree-planting programme involving schools to promote climate resilience and biodiversity.
It also cited exhibitions on Ghana’s political history, theatre performances, and a boxing industry roundtable as part of its civic engagement.
Marking five years since the passing of Rawlings, the Foundation announced a series of commemorative activities for 2025, to be publicised in due course.
The Foundation called on citizens to emulate the discipline and patriotism that fuelled the 1979 revolution to secure Ghana’s future.
“We have the opportunity to prove to all that we are dedicated to moving Ghana Forward into a new era of confidence and development.
“Such a pursuit involves transparency, patriotism and dedication to duty wherever we find ourselves. Failure is not an option,” it said.
“As we mark 46 years since that watershed moment in June 1979, lets us remain disciplined, emboldened and committed in pursuit of the beliefs and values that have kept the flag of the AFRC, PNDC and the NDC flying these past four decades and more,” it urged.
The June 4th Uprising in Ghana, which occurred in 1979, was a popular revolt against corruption and mismanagement by the ruling military government.
Led by Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, the movement arose from widespread frustration within the Armed Forces and a strong public demand for change.
Rawlings, initially imprisoned for attempting to expose government corruption, was freed by lower-ranking soldiers, sparking a chain of events that accelerated the uprising.
The movement swiftly gained momentum, leading to the overthrow of the military junta and setting the stage for subsequent political reforms in Ghana.
