– Julius Debrah Champions Late Leader’s Principles
The late President John Evans Atta Mills continues to inspire, with former Chief of Staff Julius Debrah hailing his leadership as a powerful blueprint for Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
Speaking at the 13th John Evans Atta Mills Anniversary Commemorative Lecture in Accra, Debrah lauded the former president as a “monumental figure” whose enduring influence should guide Ghana’s future leaders.
A Beacon of Peace and Principle
As Chairman of the commemorative event, Debrah underscored Mills’ commitment to peace, humility, and principled governance.
He emphasized that the annual lecture serves as a vital platform to revisit the impact of a leader who profoundly touched countless lives.
Connecting Mills’ 81st birthday with Ghana’s 68th independence anniversary, Debrah highlighted the profound link between national reflection and personal legacy.
He pointed to Mills’ presidency as a gold standard for accountability, tolerance, humility, and inclusive leadership. Recalling former President John Mahama’s sentiments, Debrah celebrated the remarkable 14% economic growth achieved under Mills – a testament to successes in both oil and non-oil sectors.
Patriotism Over Partisan Squabbles
Debrah reinforced the core principles of the John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage: integrity, excellence, passion, inclusivity, and humility. He passionately argued for the continued relevance of these values in Ghana’s often-turbulent political landscape.
“Our people quietly demand patriotism rather than the politics of minor partisan conflicts,” Debrah asserted, noting Mills’ unique blend of democratic commitment and moral fortitude.
Sharing a personal anecdote, Debrah recounted Mills’ integrity in promising him an Assistant Regional Minister role, a promise later fulfilled by President Mahama.
He also commended this year’s keynote speaker, Madam Charlotte Osei, for her unique perspective as a former student of Professor Mills, making her the ideal voice for the topic: “Atta Mills: A Case Study for the Fourth Republic.”
Debrah concluded with a stirring call to action, describing Mills as “a hybrid of the old order and the future we aspire.”
He urged the nation to cultivate “generations of many Atta Mills” – leaders embodying servant leadership and principled governance.
The event drew a galaxy of prominent figures, including Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, and former Electoral Commission Chairperson Mrs. Charlotte Osei.
By Philip Antoh