ACCRA, Ghana, 12th Sept, 2018_ - The Speaker of the Senate, Rt Hon Kenneth Lusaka Wednesday, filed past and paid last respects to the former UN Secretary General, HE Kofi Annan.

Wednesday marked the second day that the body of the late Kofi Annan lay in state at Accra International Conference Centre (AICC); with flags across the country being flown at half mast.

Speaking to journalists after paying his respects, Lusaka noted that "the air at AICC was thick and the mood sombre."

Lusaka added that Annan was not only a Ghanaian but a true son and Ambassador of Africa who should be emulated.

"We hope the exemplary life that he lived will inspire us all of us to be better citizens and those of us in leadership; to be better leaders," said the Senate Speaker after paying his respects.

Speaker Lusaka led Kenya's official diplomatic delegation - that comprises former PM, Rt Hon Raila Odinga; Murang'a Woman Representative, Hon Sabina Chege; Ag High Commissioner of Kenya to Nigeria (also accredited to Ghana), Mr Linus Ogola; among other officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Kofi Annan's name will remain etched in Kenya's history as he chaired The Panel of Eminent African Personalities, that steered the 41-day peace process. The process culminated in the "Agreement on the Principles of Partnership of the Coalition Government", which was signed by former President Mwai Kibaki and Rt Hon Odinga on 28th February, 2008 putting an end to the Post Election Violence which engulfed the nation and took the world by surprise after the 2007 polls.

Annan will be laid to rest, Thursday. The funeral service will commence at 9am at AICC which will be followed by a private burial at midday at the Military Cemetery with full military honours and a 17-gun salute.

Annan passed away peacefully on Saturday 18th August, 2018.