The JJ Rawlings Foundation has announced the passing of Sergeant Peter Tasiri Azongo, one of the key non-commissioned officers whose actions on the night of June 3, 1979, altered the course of Ghana’s political history.
He died on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the age of 95 in Pusiga, located in the Upper East Region.
In a statement issued on Monday, February 16, and signed by its Communications Directorate, the Foundation paid tribute to a man it described as instrumental to the birth of the June 4, 1979 uprising. The statement noted that the uprising was triggered by “economic hardship and widespread corruption which had brought the country on its knees at the time.”
A native of the Kusaug Traditional Area in the Upper East Region, Sgt Tasiri’s place in history is firmly anchored to the dramatic events surrounding the May 15, 1979 insurrection. Following that failed mutiny, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings was arrested and detained. The Foundation’s statement highlighted that Sgt Tasiri and his colleagues were “instrumental in releasing Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings from jail” .
In later years, Tasiri’s voice was heard during Ghana’s journey of national reconciliation. Appearing before the National Reconciliation Commission in 2003, he offered a group apology on behalf of some AFRC members for atrocities committed during their rule, attributing acts of indiscipline to the misuse of other ranks by officers.
The JJ Rawlings Foundation’s statement extended condolences to the family, saying it joins “all well-meaning Ghanaians to commiserate with the family of Sgt Tasiri.”
“Sgt Tasiri rest well. Your sacrifices helped to lay the foundation for the socio-political transformation that Ghana enjoys today. We will endeavour to keep the light you all lit alight and carve your memories in stone,” the statement read.
The family has indicated that it will seek a state burial in recognition of his contributions to the nation. Speaking to the media in Pusiga, family spokesperson Hon William Agoyini appealed for privacy as relatives mourn their loss, while paying tribute to the late ex-sergeant’s service .
Titus Tasiri Azongo, son of the deceased, eulogised his father as a hardworking and widely respected man who bore no grudges. He said the family and the nation had lost a remarkable sou.
The body of Sgt Peter Tasiri Azongo has been deposited at the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital morgue as the family awaits official communication from the state regarding burial arrangements.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh