President John Dramani Mahama has paid a moving tribute to the late President Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, describing him as a leader whose greatest strength was his character and whose enduring legacy continues to inspire Ghana’s democratic journey.
Speaking at the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Asomdwee Park to mark 14 years since the passing of the late President, Mahama said the occasion was not merely one of remembrance but an opportunity for Ghanaians to renew their gratitude for a life dedicated to national service.
“Every year, we return to this quiet place known as Asomdwee Park, not merely to lay wreaths, but to renew our gratitude for a life that enriched and strengthened our nation,” President Mahama said.
Reflecting on the passage of time, he noted that while grief may fade, the memory of Professor Mills has only grown stronger.
“Fourteen years after Professor John Evans Atta Mills left us, what endures most is not merely the memory of a President, but the memory of a man a gentle soul whose character was his greatest strength,” he stated.
Mahama praised the late President for leading with humility, compassion and integrity, saying he earned respect not through forceful rhetoric but through the strength of his values.
“Some leaders command attention by the force of their personalities”. He added
President Mills commanded respect through the strength of his character and his values,” he said, adding that the late President proved “one could occupy the highest office of the land without losing one’s humanity.”
Recalling his years as Vice President under Professor Mills, Mahama spoke of the personal lessons he learned from serving alongside him.
“I came to know a leader who listened more than he spoke, who reflected before he acted, and who never allowed the burdens of office to diminish his compassion for the ordinary people he served,” he said.
President Mahama observed that in an era often characterised by political division and harsh public discourse, Professor Mills’ example remains a powerful reminder that leadership is ultimately measured by conviction, service and compassion.
“He taught us that public office is not a prize to be claimed, but a trust given by the people to be honoured,” Mahama stressed. “Leadership is at its best when it seeks to unite people rather than divide them, to heal rather than injure, and to inspire rather than intimidate.”
The President disclosed that he continues to draw inspiration from the late leader’s wisdom and calm temperament in carrying out the responsibilities entrusted to him by the Ghanaian people.
“These values continue to remind me that every decision I take must ultimately serve the people of Ghana and strengthen the democratic institutions that will outlive us all,” he said.
President Mahama urged Ghanaians to honour Professor Mills not only through annual commemorations but by embracing the ideals that defined his public life.
“The greatest tribute we can pay to President Mills lies in our commitment to the principles he cherished and lived by: integrity in public life, respect for democratic institutions, tolerance of differing views, compassion for the vulnerable, and an unwavering belief that Ghana’s progress must benefit each and every one of its citizens,” he stated.
Describing the late President’s vision of a peaceful, just and prosperous Ghana as “a work in progress,” Mahama pledged to continue advancing that vision.
“I pledge to the memory of President John Evans Atta Mills that I shall continue to walk in the footsteps he left behind,” he affirmed.
Addressing the late President’s widow, Mrs. Ernestina Naadu Mills, and the entire Mills family, President Mahama expressed the nation’s appreciation for their sacrifice.
“To Mrs. Ernestina Naadu Mills and the entire Mills family, I extend the gratitude of a grateful nation for sharing with us a man whose life continues to illuminate our path,” he said.
He concluded by expressing hope that future generations would come to appreciate the enduring values exemplified by Professor Mills.
“True greatness is often quiet, genuine strength is often humble, and enduring leadership is measured by service rather than acclaim.
Professor John Evans Atta Mills lived by those ideals. May his example continue to guide and inspire our Republic, and may his gentle soul forever rest in perfect peace.”
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
