Kofi Annan a leader, statesman, says family in tribute

The immediate family of former United Nations Secretary General, Kofi Annan, yesterday paid special tribute to him, describing him as a leader and statesman.

The tribute, signed by his son, Kojo on Kofi Annan Foundation’s website, said the Ghanaian diplomat was a man of deep convictions, who was committed to instilling fairness, integrity, kindness and service, while advocating peace and human rights globally.

“On August 18 2018, the world lost a leader and a statesman: Kofi Atta Annan. And we lost a brother, husband, father, grandfather and uncle – a man of deep convictions, who was as committed to instilling fairness, integrity, kindness and service in each of us, as he was to advocating peace and human rights around the world.

“He was as present with each of us and the family, as he was with every crisis, mission and intervention. No call, email or text went unanswered.

“No personal crises unaddressed; no major family milestones or celebrations unattended; no matter what was happening in the world. So, while we shared him with the world, we were never poorer for it,” the tribute reads.

The family added that Annan, who won the 2001 Nobel peace prize would want the world to look forward with hope and keep striving to create a freer, fairer and more peaceful universe.

“Today, buoyed and comforted by the outpouring of love and support we have received from around the world, we are richer for having shared him with you.

“Stubborn optimist that he was, he would want us all to look forward with hope and keep striving to create a freer, fairer, more peaceful world.

“Daddy, may you rest in perfect peace knowing the depth of our love for you and gratitude for the tremendous role you played in each of our lives,” it added.