Professor John Evans Atta Mills died in office on July 24, 2012
Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt, has shared poignant memories of his encounters with the late President John Evans Atta Mills during the former President’s health challenges.
Speaking at the 12th anniversary of Prof. Mills’ death at the Conference Centre of the University of Ghana, Legon, Pratt recounted a moment in 2008 when he inquired if Prof. Mills was in good health to contest the presidential election. Prof. Mills admitted to his ailing condition but expressed hope for recovery after a medical checkup in South Africa.
“Professor Mills admitted that he had been unwell but insisted the doctors in South Africa had said that he would be alright. I left Prof. feeling somehow assured that he was worthy for the fight ahead of him and the National Democratic Congress on December 7, 2008,” Pratt said on July 19.
Pratt recalled a conversation with the late President during a visit to the Freedom Center, where Prof. Mills participated in an event despite serious vision problems. After the event, Pratt mustered the courage to ask a difficult question.
“Prof. Can you make it?” Pratt asked.
“Make what?” Prof. Mills replied.
Pratt explained himself, and Prof. Mills responded with unwavering commitment: “I will use the last ounce of energy in me to serve the people. I can’t give up now. The country is in a very dire situation, and I am ready to make sacrifices to be part of the rescue team.”
Prof. Mills assumed office as the President of Ghana in 2009 after winning the December 2008 elections. He passed away on July 24, 2012, a few months before the election while still in office, seeking re-election. His Vice-President, John Mahama, was later sworn in as President and subsequently won the 2012 elections for the NDC.
GA/BB
