Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt, has fondly reminisced about his experiences with the late President John Evans Atta Mills during the former President’s health battles.
At the 12th anniversary event of Prof. Mills’ passing, hosted at the University of Ghana’s Conference Centre in Legon, Mr Pratt recalled a 2008 conversation where he asked Prof. Mills about his health and his capacity to run for president.
Prof. Mills acknowledged his health concerns but expressed hope for improvement following a medical examination in South Africa.
“Professor Mills admitted that he had been unwell but insisted the doctors in South Africa had said that he would be alright. I left Prof. feeling somehow assured that he was worthy for the fight ahead of him and the National Democratic Congress on December 7, 2008,” Mr Pratt said.
Mr Pratt reminisced about a visit to the Freedom Center, where he had a conversation with the late President. Despite severe vision issues, Prof. Mills took part in the event.
Following the event, Pratt gathered his courage to ask a challenging question.
“Prof. Can you make it?” Pratt asked.
“Make what?” Prof. Mills replied.
Pratt explained himself, and Prof. Mills responded with unwavering commitment: “I will use the last ounce of energy in me to serve the people. I can’t give up now. The country is in a very dire situation, and I am ready to make sacrifices to be part of the rescue team.”
Prof. Mills assumed the presidency of Ghana in 2009 after winning the December 2008 elections.
He passed away on July 24, 2012, a few months before the election while still in office and seeking re-election.
His Vice-President, John Mahama, was sworn in as President and later won the 2012 elections for the NDC.