13th Atta Mills Memorial Lecture Set for July 22 at UPSA: Celebrating the Legacy of Ghana’s Peaceful Patriot

By Joylinda Laryea / July 5, 2025

The Governing Board of the John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage is set to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the passing of one of Ghana’s most revered leaders, Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, with a special memorial lecture slated for Tuesday, 22nd July 2025 at the Ohene Kofi Konadu Auditorium, UPSA, at exactly 2:00 p.m.

Themed “Atta Mills: A Case Study for the Fourth Republic,” the event aims to reflect on the enduring legacy of the late President Mills, his contributions to Ghana’s democratic journey, and the values he stood for peace, humility, accountability, and unity.

The lecture will be delivered by Mrs. Charlotte Osei, former Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission, known for her integrity and service to the nation’s democratic processes. The program will be chaired by Hon. Julius Debrah, former Chief of Staff under President John Mahama.

The Man Behind the Legacy: John Evans Atta Mills

Professor John Evans Atta Mills, born on July 21, 1944, in Tarkwa in the Western Region of Ghana, was a distinguished academic, lawyer, and statesman. He served as the Vice President of Ghana under President Jerry John Rawlings from 1997 to 2001, and later became the third President of the Fourth Republic, serving from January 2009 until his untimely death on July 24, 2012.

He was the first sitting president in Ghana’s history to die in office, a moment that shook the nation and led to a peaceful transition of power, reinforcing Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.

Known fondly as the “Asomdwehene” (King of Peace), Atta Mills’ tenure was marked by his calm demeanor, commitment to ethical governance, and his relentless pursuit of national unity. He prioritized peace over partisanship and embodied civility in politics at a time when Ghana’s democracy was still consolidating.

A Living Legacy Through the Memorial Heritage

The J.E.A. Mills Memorial Heritage was established to preserve and promote the values he espoused throughout his life. The annual memorial lecture brings together statesmen, academics, politicians, and civil society to engage in critical reflections on Ghana’s democratic path and leadership values.

This year’s lecture, marking 13 years since his passing, will not only honor his memory but also provide a platform to discuss how his leadership model can serve as a case study for governance in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.

His legacy continues to inspire conversations about the kind of leadership needed in Ghana one that puts the people first, champions truth, and governs with humility.

As the date draws near, Ghanaians from all walks of life are expected to attend and tune in to what promises to be a powerful event remembering a man whose life was defined by service, scholarship, and selflessness.

“John Evans Atta Mills may be gone, but his ideals remain timeless,” the organizers stated in a release. “He gave us a template for leadership that the next generation must not only admire but emulate.”