Omanghana
President John Dramani Mahama has paid tribute to the late Professor John Evans Atta Mills, describing him as a cherished friend, transformative mentor and principled national leader.
Mahama delivered the tribute during a wreath-laying ceremony at Asomdwee Park in Accra on Friday, July 24, marking 14 years since the death of Ghana’s third president under the Fourth Republic. The ceremony brought together government officials, members of Parliament, leaders of the National Democratic Congress, traditional authorities, the Mills family and members of the public.
Reflecting on their political journey, Mahama recalled how Mills selected him as his running mate ahead of the 2008 general election. Their partnership eventually led to Mills becoming president and Mahama serving as vice president in January 2009.
Mahama said the four years they spent working together at the highest level of government developed into a strong personal and professional relationship.
He credited Mills with giving him valuable, practical lessons in governance, diplomacy, public service and humility. According to Mahama, those experiences significantly influenced his leadership style and prepared him for the responsibilities he later assumed as president.
Mahama acknowledged that while the entire country mourned when Mills died in office on July 24, 2012, the loss was deeply personal for him. He had not only lost a president but also a trusted political guide, mentor and close friend.
The president praised Mills for promoting peace, national unity and responsible leadership. He described him as a leader who placed the welfare of ordinary citizens above political division and personal ambition.
Mahama also highlighted the late president’s commitment to economic stability, accountability and the fight against corruption, saying those principles remain relevant to Ghana’s development.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building on the people-centered ideals of Mills’ “Better Ghana Agenda,” which he said helped lay the foundation for the government’s current Reset Agenda. Mahama has previously described Asomdwee Park as both a national symbol and a reminder of the values that should guide Ghanaian politics.
The president further assured the Mills family and organizations preserving the former leader’s legacy that Asomdwee Park would continue to receive attention as a national memorial.
He said maintaining the burial site was important not only for honoring Mills but also for educating future generations about his contribution to Ghana’s democracy and development.
The commemoration formed part of a series of activities organized by the J.E.A. Mills Memorial Heritage. Other events included a commemorative lecture and a memorial hockey tournament.
Professor Mills served as Ghana’s president from January 2009 until his death in July 2012. Before becoming president, he served as vice president from 1997 to 2001 under former President Jerry John Rawlings.
Mahama urged Ghanaians to preserve Mills’ legacy by embracing peace, humility, accountability and unity in public life.
Source: Omanghana
