President Mills mourns Ghanaian soldier killed in Afghanistan

His Excellency, President John Evans Atta Mills, on behalf of Government and the People of the Republic of Ghana, respectfully extend their condolences to the family of the late Major (RTD) Lawrence Mefful, who was part of a team dispatched to Afghanistan under UN command.

Major Mefful went to Afghanistan to support the Afghan elections and thus provide the Afghan people an opportunity to shape their destiny.

The late Major Lawrence Kwesi Mefful met his untimely death, while defending civilian and UN colleagues in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Armed only with pistols, against Taliban forces who wielded automatic weapons, grenades and wearing suicide vests, the late Major Mefful, together with a few colleagues, held the Taliban forces to a gun battle, long enough for other UN colleagues to escape, saving many civilian lives. Unfortunately Major Mefful was shot and killed in the gun battle.

The Government and the people of Ghana recognize Major Mefful's heroic act. He was brave and selfless to the very end, paying the ultimate price to save colleague civilians.

The Government and people of Ghana are particularly proud that the UN has recognized Major Mefful and his colleagues for not only serving in the capacity in which they did as peace makers, but also as fitting ambassadors of their respective countries.

This incident in Afghanistan is another painful reminder of how our soldiers and some countrymen and women work in some difficult and dangerous environments to promote the wellbeing of those who are most in need.

His Excellency extends deepest condolences on behalf of himself and all Ghanaians to the family of the late Major (Rtd) Lawrence Kwesi Mefful. May his soul rest in perfect peace.

SIGNED
JOHN H.M. NEWMAN
CHIEF OF STAFF
[Wednesday November 25, 2009]