Former EC Chair Charlotte Osei to Headline Prof. Mills Anniversary Lecture

Former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Charlotte Osei, has been named as the keynote speaker for the 13th anniversary lecture in honor of the late President John Evans Atta Mills. The event, part of a series of commemorative activities, aims to reflect on the life, leadership, and values of the former president who passed away while in office in 2012.

The memorial lecture is scheduled for Tuesday, July 22, and will be held at the Ohene Kofi Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). Themed “Atta Mills: A Case Study for the Fourth Republic,” the lecture will explore the enduring impact of President Mills’ contributions to Ghana’s democratic evolution and governance.

Announcing the event at a press conference in Accra, Alex Segbefia, Chairperson of the JEA Mills Memorial Heritage, stated that the lecture forms a core part of the organization’s mission to preserve and promote the legacy of Prof. Mills. Mr. Segbefia revealed that former Chief of Staff Julius Debrah will chair the event, bringing his experience as a seasoned public servant to guide the discussions.

“This year’s theme reflects the belief that the life and leadership of President Mills offer critical insights into the workings of Ghana’s Fourth Republic,” Segbefia said. “We believe Charlotte Osei, with her deep understanding of public institutions and democratic processes, is well-suited to deliver this lecture.”

In addition to the lecture, several other activities have been outlined to mark the anniversary. On Thursday, July 24, a wreath-laying ceremony and memorial service will be held at Asomdwee Park, the burial site of the late president, beginning at 9 a.m. This solemn gathering is expected to attract government officials, members of civil society, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens who continue to honor Prof. Mills for his humility, integrity, and service to the nation.

As part of efforts to highlight Prof. Mills’ lesser-known personal interests, the Atta Mills Memorial Hockey Tournament is slated for Saturday, July 26 at the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium. This sporting event, according to Segbefia, not only celebrates Mills’ passion for hockey but also aims to promote youth engagement, discipline, and teamwork—values he strongly advocated.

Speaking on the broader goals of the Memorial Heritage, Segbefia disclosed that the organization has commenced work on a comprehensive visual documentation project detailing the life and works of the late president. This initiative, he noted, is designed to preserve Prof. Mills’ legacy for future generations and provide educational content for scholars and students alike.

Established in 2021 and officially launched in 2022, the JEA Mills Memorial Heritage serves as a platform to celebrate and institutionalize the ideals and achievements of President Mills. The initiative is spearheaded by a group of close associates, family members, and former government officials who served under his leadership. Key figures include Samuel Atta Mills, Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo, and Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, with Alex Segbefia serving as the Chair.

Segbefia called on all Ghanaians, especially the youth, to engage with the Memorial Heritage’s activities and support its initiatives aimed at preserving a legacy built on peace, justice, and servant leadership.

“The commemorative events are not just about remembering the past,” Segbefia remarked. “They are about drawing lessons from a life of selfless public service and using those lessons to build a better future for our country.”

As the 13th anniversary approaches, the series of activities planned by the Memorial Heritage underscores the profound respect and admiration that many Ghanaians continue to hold for President John Evans Atta Mills—an academic, statesman, and unifying leader whose legacy continues to inspire.