Former President Jerry John Rawlings has finally been laid to rest at the Military Cemetery in Burma Camp.

His burial was preceded by a procession through the principal streets of Accra from the Osu area, then to the 37 military Hospital and ended at the Burma Camp.

The parade was for members of the general public who due to steps taken to curb the spread of Covid-19, could not pay their last respect had the opportunity to do so.

In the early hours of Wednesday, the final day for the funeral rite of the former leader took place at the Black Star Square.

The event saw many heads of state from neighbouring countries and state officials from the Legislature and the Judiciary pay respect to the longest-serving head of state.

The final burial rite of the founder of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was presided over by Bishop of the Keta Akatsi Diocese, Gabriel Edoe Kumordji, who led the blessing of the resting ground of J.J. Rawlings.

In accordance with state procedures, the firing of the 21-gun salute by the military was observed to honour the memory and position of the former late President.

The Ghana Armed Forces and the Air Forces bid a military farewell to their former Commander-in-Chief with a march and a fly over.

Present to pay their last respects to Rawlings were President Akufo-Addo accompanied by First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former President John Mahama among others.

Also, wife and former First Lady together with her children; Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Princess Amina and Kimathi bid farewell to their husband and father.

The final rites for Rawlings, the reading of tributes and lowering of the casket left many present in tears.

Later during the ceremony, the family of the late statesman was presented with insignia held by the first President of the Fourth Republic during his time as Commander-in-Chief by the insignia bearers.

A representative of the Rawlings' family, Zanetor Rawlings at the end of the ceremony expressed gratitude to all who came together to bid farewell to their father and once President of the nation.