The family of former President Jerry John Rawlings has confirmed the passing of their relative which occurred on Thursday morning.

The 73-year-old is said to have died at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra after a short illness.

Following news of his death, many Ghanaians both home and abroad have been thrown into a state of shock.

Personalities in Ghana and abroad are expressing their commiserations while communicating their fondest memories of the respected statesman via social media.

But the daughter of the former statesman, Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings, in a statement said the incident is a tough one for the family and is, therefore, requesting "for privacy at this difficult moment."

She added that details for the funeral arrangement will be announced in due course.