Rawlings: I don't miss being President

Former President Jerry John Rawlings says he does not miss being president, having left power in January 2001.

However, the former military ruler admitted that it was burdensome trying to assist the vulnerable segments of Ghanaian society without the resources and executive authority of the role.

"I don't. At the same, it is sometimes burdensome that I do not have the resources and executive authority to deal with the worrisome issues and pain on the ground," President Rawlings said in an exclusive interview with the Daily Graphic.

"My office has to deal with people and hardships including their inability to pay school and hospital fees, rent and funerals. Where else can they go?".

The former President disclosed that such obligations meant he had to accept donations and contributions from organisations.

"I am uncomfortable taking donations and contributions from people to support other needy people, but what can I do? Thankfully the Presidency, various personalities and organisations chip in once in a while".

He urged government to consider setting up a humanitarian foundation to cater for some of these needs.

President Rawlings has been in the news recently over a $5 million bribe he is alleged to have received from Nigerian dictator, Sani Abacha.