Accra, Sept. 24, GNA - Professor John Evans Atta Mills, presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has described as a great shock the death of Finance Minister Kwadwo Baah-Wiredu, whom he said was humble, respectful and great achiever. "It is a great loss to the nation, Ghana," Prof Mills told the Ghana News Agency.

Mr Baah-Wiredu, 56, died in a South African hospital on Wednesday after a short illness, according to a statement from the presidency. Prof Mills, who said he was shaken by the news of the death, added that Mr Baah-Wiredu was one of his students at the University of Ghana. "He was one of the brilliant students and I was not surprised he excelled wherever he found himself."

Prof Mills expressed condolences to Mr Baah-Wiredu's family, saying he couldn't imagine their grief at this moment. "Indeed, the nation has lost somebody for whom I have the greatest respect and I pray that the good Lord will keep him in his bosom."