Mills redefined presidential morality – Mahama

Former President John Mahama has urged Ghanaian leaders to emulate the late former President John Evans Atta Mills.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, at a wreath-laying ceremony on Tuesday, 24 July 2019, to commemorate the passing of the late Professor some seven years ago, Mr Mahama said Professor Mills “elevated the Office of the President above the rising bitterness of our partisan politics. He redefined presidential morality. For his commitment to the path of peace, we all conferred on him ‘Asomdweehene’”.

Mr Mahama was of the view that Professor Mills held himself to the highest standards of moral courage and civic responsibility, adding that Ghana owes the late president a great debt of gratitude.

Mr Mahama, who said Professor Mills was a defender of the rule of law, noted that his former boss “respected the primacy and interests of the Ghanaian people. He supported the integrity and independence of our national institutions. He was empathetic and kind, and measured success by the welfare of the least among us”.

He continued: “Professor Mills placed principles over partisanship, and above political advantage. He believed that the promise of tomorrow should not be derailed by the sins of yesterday and by its vengeance”.

“He eschewed avarice and led by the example of his uncommon humility and simplicity. His graciousness extended even to those who vilified and maligned him, and he wore their respect as a medal of honour. I am greatly indebted to him, Professor Mills, for the opportunity to learn at his feet, for the impact he had on my political life and the great lessons in national over partisan service”.

Mr Mahama said the commemoration affords Ghanaians a solemn moment to consider “our fidelity to the Good Professor’s example and to reflect on the principles and practice of his leadership style”.