Ghana today commemorates the 13th anniversary of the passing of Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, the country’s third president under the Fourth Republic and a revered statesman often referred to as the “Asomdwehene” — the “King of Peace.”
President Mills died on July 24, 2012, while serving in office — becoming Ghana’s first sitting president to pass away. His death shocked the nation and the world, but his legacy of peace, humility, and principled leadership remains a guiding force in Ghana’s political and civic life.
A Week of Tribute and Reflection
To honour his memory, the John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage (JEAMMH) has rolled out a series of commemorative events starting Tuesday, July 22. The three-day programme is designed to celebrate President Mills’ enduring contributions to nation-building and democratic governance.
The commemorative activities include:
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A public lecture in Accra
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An annual hockey tournament at the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium
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A wreath-laying ceremony at Asomdwee Park, his final resting place
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A memorial service to conclude the observance
At this year’s 13th Anniversary Lecture, Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff under the Mills administration and Chair of the Planning Committee, called on Ghana’s youth to uphold the former president’s values.
“Let the younger generation draw inspiration from his example,” Debrah said.
“His ideals of moral leadership and national unity continue to be a beacon in today’s political landscape.”
Legacy Projects Honouring a Gentle Giant
Since his passing, a number of legacy initiatives have been launched to preserve and promote President Mills’ ideals:
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The John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage, launched in 2021, leads annual lectures, community dialogues, and educational initiatives.
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A newly launched book, “Atta Mills Around the Regions”, compiles regional lectures held across all 16 regions in his honour.
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His love for sports is remembered through the annual hockey tournament.
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Several institutions bear his name, including:
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The FPSO John Atta Mills (oil production vessel)
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A Community Day Senior High School in Ekumfi Otuam, his hometown
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A boarding house at Achimota School
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The Faculty of Law building at the University of Ghana
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Looking ahead, the Heritage plans to establish a Presidential Library and Documentary Centre in Cape Coast, which will serve as a hub for preserving records and promoting the former president’s philosophy of governance.
A Legacy of Peace and Public Service
President Atta Mills served from 2009 until his death in 2012, earning widespread admiration across political lines for his calm leadership, constitutional discipline, and inclusive governance. His tenure was marked by efforts to ensure economic stability, strengthen democratic institutions, and champion social justice.
As the nation pauses to remember his life and service, President Mills’ legacy continues to inspire a call to humility, dignity, and peace in public leadership.
