President John Dramani Mahama on Friday joined the family of the late former President John Evans Atta Mills, government officials, members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and other dignitaries at Asomdwee Park in Accra for a wreath-laying ceremony to mark the 14th anniversary of the former President’s death.
The annual memorial ceremony honoured the life and legacy of Prof. Mills, who served as President of Ghana from 2009 until he died in office on 24 July 2012 at the age of 68, becoming the first sitting Head of State in Ghana’s Fourth Republic to die in office. Floral tributes were laid at his graveside as attendees observed prayers and hymns in his memory.
President Mahama laid a wreath on behalf of the Republic of Ghana, while other wreaths were laid on behalf of Parliament, the widow of the late President—Ernestina Naadu Mills—the Mills family, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the J.E.A. Mills Memorial Heritage, and the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama said his close working relationship with Professor Mills during his time as Vice President continues to shape his approach to leadership, particularly the values of integrity, unity and service to the people. “As I reflect on the responsibilities that the people of Ghana have entrusted on me today, I often recall his quiet wisdom and steady temperament. These values continue to remind me that every decision that I take must ultimately serve the people of Ghana and strengthen the democratic institutions that would outlive us all,” he said.
The President emphasised that the greatest tribute to the late President lies not in speeches, ceremonies or anniversaries, but in a commitment to the principles he cherished—integrity in public life, respect for democratic institutions, tolerance for divergent views, compassion for vulnerable groups, and an unwavering belief that Ghana’s progress must benefit every citizen.
“His dream of a peaceful, just and prosperous Ghana remains a work in progress. I pledge to the memory of Professor Mills that I shall continue to walk in the footsteps that he left,” President Mahama added. He also expressed gratitude to the late President’s family, saying: “To Mrs 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”.
The ceremony also featured tributes reflecting on Prof. Mills’ leadership, humility and commitment to public service. Evangelist Dr Lawrence Tetteh called for unity, compassion and reconciliation in national leadership, urging President Mahama to govern with humility while promoting national cohesion.
The commemoration formed part of a series of activities organised by the J.E.A. Mills Memorial Heritage, which earlier in the week held a commemorative lecture delivered by Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). The programme will conclude on Saturday, July 25, with the President John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Hockey Tournament at the Theodosia Okoh National Hockey Pitch.
President Mills’ passing on July 24, 2012, after he was rushed to the 37 Military Hospital following a short illness, plunged the nation into mourning, with Ghanaians across political divides continuing to honour his memory.
