Former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Mrs. Charlotte Kesson-Smith Osei, has delivered a stirring reflection on the legacy of late President H.E John Evans Atta Mills, stating emphatically that “Prof would be outraged” by the rampant destruction caused by illegal mining (galamsey) and the toxic climate of political discourse in today’s Ghana.
Speaking at the 13th John Evans Atta Mills Anniversary Commemorative Lecture under the theme “Atta Mills: A Case Study for the Fourth Republic”, Mrs. Charlotte Osei noted that the late President would be heartbroken by the environmental degradation and vitriol dominating Ghana’s media space—especially online.
“Prof would be outraged at how we are permitting galamsey to damage our environment, our bodies, and our future. He would be saddened by the level of lies and vitriol we hurl at each other daily in the media, especially online,” – she said.
While acknowledging these setbacks, the keynote speaker also painted a balanced picture of what Prof. Mills might appreciate if he were alive today.
She said the late leader would take solace in the peaceful democratic transitions that have occurred since his passing, most notably the 2016 and 2024 elections, where losing candidates gracefully conceded defeat for the greater good of the nation.
“In spite of the rabid partisanship, our citizens are still engaged and not passive, and our democracy continues to grow. Ghana remains generally peaceful, and since Prof’s departure, we have seen two peaceful and uncontested changes of power,” she remarked.
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Mrs. Osei also highlighted that Prof. Mills would find comfort in knowing that his immediate family—his wife, son, and relatives—are thriving. Moreover, many of his former students and mentees now hold prominent positions in business, the executive, legislature, and judiciary, a testament to his enduring legacy as a teacher and mentor.
“Ghana still stands as a beacon of democracy and peace across the sub-region and the continent. We remain respected in the global community of nations. Prof would be proud of that,” she affirmed.
In a heartfelt closing, Mrs. Osei expressed her deep gratitude to the J.E.A. Mills Memorial Heritage for organizing the annual lecture, calling it “an honour of a lifetime” to be chosen as keynote speaker.
“May we all be worthy of Prof’s trust. May we be faithful to his example. And may we be tireless in continuing the work that Prof started. May the memory of Professor John Evans Atta Mills forever be a blessing and an inspiration to service.”
The commemorative event drew dignitaries from across political and professional spectrums, all gathered to honor the enduring legacy of a man many remember as Ghana’s “Asomdwehene”—the King of Peace.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu