The Member of Parliament for Ekumfi, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, on Wednesday led Parliament in paying tribute to Ghana’s late President, Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, as the House commemorated the 14th anniversary of his passing.
In a statement on the floor of Parliament, the Ekumfi lawmaker described the occasion as more than a memorial, saying it was a solemn responsibility to honour the life and enduring legacy of one of Ghana’s most distinguished statesmen whose leadership continues to inspire generations.
Hon. Kwainoe hailed the late President as an accomplished scholar, patriot and servant leader whose name remains synonymous with humility, integrity, peace and selfless service to the nation.
He said although fourteen years have elapsed since Professor Atta Mills’ passing, his legacy continues to resonate in Ghana’s democratic journey, stressing that true leadership is measured not by power or position but by character, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the national interest.
According to him, the late President exercised authority with remarkable humility, remained accessible to ordinary Ghanaians despite occupying the highest office in the land, and consistently placed the country’s interests above partisan politics.
The Ekumfi MP also recalled Professor Atta Mills’ enduring declaration that he would “rather lose power than lose the peace of Ghana,” describing the statement as one of the finest examples of principled democratic leadership in the nation’s history.
He urged Parliament and all Ghanaians to honour the late President by embracing the values he championed, including integrity in public office, accountability, peace, justice and national unity.
“The greatest tribute we can pay to his memory is not simply to remember him every year, but to emulate his values, uphold integrity in public office, defend the peace of our Republic, protect our democratic institutions and always place Ghana above personal or political considerations,” he said.
Following the statement, Members of Parliament from both the Majority and Minority sides took turns to eulogise the late President, describing him as a bridge-builder, a statesman and a leader whose calm disposition, humility and unwavering respect for constitutional democracy strengthened Ghana’s democratic credentials.
The lawmakers unanimously praised Professor Atta Mills for his exemplary leadership, modesty and dedication to national unity, noting that his legacy remains a guiding light for public servants and political leaders.
The House also conveyed its deepest sympathies to the Atta Mills family, particularly his widow, Mrs. Ernestina Naadu Mills, and reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to upholding the ideals of peace, integrity and selfless service that defined the late President’s life.
By: Christian Kpesese
