Today, July 21, 2025 marks what would have been the 81st birthday of the late President of the Republic of Ghana, Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills.

A renowned scholar and statesman, President Mills served as Ghana's 11th head of state and was widely regarded as a staunch advocate for peace throughout his public life.

His profound vision and unwavering commitment to national unity, justice, and progress are beautifully encapsulated in some of his most memorable quotes.

GhanaWeb reflects on five key pillars of his enduring legacy, words and actions that continue to inspire a united and peaceful Ghana.

Unity and inclusion

President Mills consistently emphasised the importance of bringing all Ghanaians together, regardless of political affiliation or regional background.

His promise to be a leader for everyone remains a cornerstone of his legacy.

"I have always said that I will be President for all Ghanaians, whether they voted for me or not and without consideration for which part of the country they come from. It will be my duty as President to heal wounds and unite our dear nation,” the late president once said.

Peace and cooperation

His commitment to peace was not merely political, it was a heartfelt prayer for the nation’s future, especially during election periods.

He believed that true development required unity and shared responsibility.

“As we approach the December Presidential and Parliamentary elections, it is my prayer and hope that we shall continue to preserve and maintain the peace, remain united, and focused as people with one destiny. We can hardly achieve meaningful development if the citizenry, on whose behalf we are managing the country, does not support and cooperate with us,” he once said.

Fairness and justice

President Mills strongly upheld the Rule of Law and due process, consistently advocating for a society grounded in fairness, not political revenge.

“I will not condone actions that will pit one citizen against the other as a way of settling political scores. That is unacceptable and will not be the Ghanaian way of doing things. The Ghanaian way should be that, under the Rule of Law, and with the benchmark of due process, any violations of the laws of Ghana will be addressed in a manner that is fair, balanced, and right in the sight of God,” he said.

Reflection and progress

He encouraged Ghanaians to use holidays not just for leisure, but for introspection and forward-thinking, reminding citizens that unity and shared purpose lead to national achievement.

“As a people, our greatest achievements have come when we have lived up to the ideals that unite rather than divide us and have attached ourselves to a common-sense purpose. Let this day not just see us enjoying just the holiday part of it; let us find time to reflect on the way forward as we strive to build a Better Ghana,” he once said.

Sustaining peace

To President Mills, peace was a sacred national asset, essential to democracy and prosperity, and never to be taken for granted.

This earned him the nickname; "Asomdwehene"

“As a nation, we have no other option but to 'sustain the peace' we are enjoying in order to broaden the frontiers of our democracy and development. At no point in time should we take the peace we are enjoying for granted. Our fallen heroes and Founding Fathers toiled to give us this dear nation, and we dare not destroy what they have built.”

Achievements and vision

Born on July 21, 1944, Professor Mills overcame two presidential election defeats in 2000 and 2004 before finally assuming office on January 7, 2009.

Affectionately known as ‘Uncle Atta’, he quickly prioritised stabilising Ghana’s economy. As an accomplished academic and educationist, he focused on improving teaching and learning, notably abolishing the shift system in public schools and actively addressing the widespread issue of “schools under trees.”

Professor John Evans Atta Mills’ legacy continues to inspire Ghanaians to pursue peace, unity, and inclusive development.

His presidency was marked by a deep commitment to the well-being of all citizens, regardless of background or political belief, leaving an indelible mark on Ghana’s democratic and moral fabric.

VPO/MA

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