Okudzeto Ablakwa Pays Tribute to Atta Mills, Urges Ghanaians to Live by His Valu
Foreign Affairs Minister says the late President’s integrity, humility and commitment to peace remain a guiding light for Ghana
By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | July 25, 2026
ACCRA, Ghana — Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late President Professor John Evans Atta Mills, describing him as an extraordinary statesman whose values continue to inspire Ghanaians 14 years after his passing.
Joining national commemorations marking the anniversary of the former President’s death, Ablakwa said Prof. Mills earned global admiration through his integrity, humility, incorruptibility and unwavering commitment to peace.
“Fourteen years on, we remember the outstanding and extraordinary Asomdwehene who earned universal respect for his integrity, humility, incorruptibility, intellectual depth, belief in youth, visionary leadership, genuine love for country and his exceptional commitment to peace,” Ablakwa wrote in a tribute shared on social media.
A Leader Whose Legacy Endures
The Foreign Affairs Minister described Prof. Mills as a leader whose influence extends far beyond politics, saying his style of leadership continues to serve as a model for public service in Ghana.
According to Ablakwa, the greatest honour Ghanaians can give the late President is to live by the principles he demonstrated throughout his life.
“Prof. John Evans Atta Mills shall never be forgotten, and we shall honour his memory by striving each day to follow the values he epitomised and taught us,” he stated.
National Commemoration at Asomdwee Park
Ablakwa joined senior government officials, members of the Mills family, National Democratic Congress (NDC) leaders and supporters at Asomdwee Park in Accra, where wreaths were laid in memory of the former President.
The ceremony formed part of activities marking the 14th anniversary of Prof. Mills’ passing on July 24, 2012, while serving as President of Ghana.
Prayers, reflections and tributes were offered in honour of the late leader, who remains one of the few sitting African presidents to have died in office.
Remembering the ‘Asomdwehene’
Popularly known as the “Asomdwehene” (King of Peace), Prof. Mills was widely respected for his calm leadership style, honesty and dedication to democratic governance.
Throughout his presidency, he became known for promoting peace, tolerance and national unity, values many political leaders continue to reference today.
His administration also prioritised education, infrastructure, healthcare and social intervention programmes aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.
“Continue to Rest with the Lord”
Concluding his tribute, Ablakwa offered a personal message to the late President.
“Mr. President, continue to rest with the Lord. Forever in our hearts and deeds.”
His message echoed similar tributes from President John Dramani Mahama, former government officials and thousands of Ghanaians who continue to celebrate Prof. Mills as a leader whose legacy of integrity and humility remains deeply embedded in Ghana’s democratic journey.
