National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay has expressed shock at the news of the death of former General Secretary Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie, popularly known as Sir John.

The CEO of the Forestry Commission is reported to have died in Accra on Wednesday after a short illness.

Speaking to JoyNews, Mr Blay said “I’m in shock. I am trying, as it were, to digest it. I still cannot believe it.”

“About three weeks ago I was at his office. He was very well and happy, we cracked jokes. He was very healthy and full of life,” he said.

He further explained that “I learnt, about some four days ago, that he had taken ill and was recovering.”

The clearly distraught Chairman of the NPP described Sir John’s demise as a big loss to the party and the country.

Meanwhile, a section of the public has taken to social media to express their condolences.

Just weeks ago this video was trending, now you no more. Oh Sir John 💔 pic.twitter.com/9isZjQRHn6

— ARMANI🤴🏾BLACKWELL (@kinjorge) July 1, 2020

Mr Owusu Afriyie became CEO of the Forestry Commission in March 2017 after being appointed to that position by President Akufo-Addo.

Rest well Sir John.
A Father, brother, mentor to many and a great asset to the NPP. pic.twitter.com/DKatwT1qbY

— NPP (@NPPmedia) July 1, 2020

The lawyer cum politician had previously served as General Secretary of the governing party between 2010 and 2014.

Ooh my fav. Politician 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 ooh sir John pic.twitter.com/oitU9Vdzzt

— Shatta Dede (krobo lady still 😂🤣) (@donkorolivia5) July 1, 2020

I've missed hearing from Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie aka 'Sir John' on radio and TV.

This interview with @delayghana in June 2015 is arguably one of the best.

His humor is top notch. pic.twitter.com/5z2s9qvrc7

— Tutankhamun. (@Obiba_) June 30, 2020