There was massive turnout at Sakora Wonoo in the Kwabre East District of the Ashanti Region yesterday where the mortal remains of Lawyer Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie, popularly called ‘Sir John’, was finally interred.
Sir John was a former General Secretary of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) who until his sudden passing about a year ago, was the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Forestry Commission (FC).
He passed on suddenly on July 1, 2020, after he was believed to have contracted Covid-19. His death threw the country into mourning.
Prior to his burial at his family cemetery at SakoraWonoo, his body was laid in state at the Sakora Wonoo Junior High School Park for mourners to pay their last respects.
President Akufo-Addo led a high-powered government delegation including Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia to mourn Sir John who was a devout Adventist.
The opposition NDC as well as scores of dignitaries from far and near, were also not left out of the solemn occasion as they thronged Wonoo to mourn Sir John.
The mortal remains of Sir John
President Akufo-Addo in a tribute described Sir John as “a strong human rights defender.”
He eulogised Sir John for his selflessness and commitment to the course of the NPP and also said he served his country well.
He said Sir John was “a passionate devotee of the Danquah-Dombo-Busia political tradition, outstanding stalwart of the NPP. Strong defender of human rights as a lawyer, and faithful adherent of the Seventh Day Adventist faith,” adding “these were the multi-faceted aspects of the career and character of Sir John which earned him great affection and considerable renown.”
President Akufo-Addo said “like everyone who had the opportunity of knowing him, I received news of his death with great shock and deep sadness. Indeed, the disbelief and grief expressed by many at the news of his death are testimony to how people, in and out of the NPP felt about him.”
Sir John was a prominent member of the ruling NPP, a political party he faithfully served in different capacities until he rose to become the party’s General Secretary and was noted for his infectious sense of humour which he applied even in anxious political situations.
FROM I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr., Kumasi