The JEA Mills Memorial Heritage has unveiled a series of activities to mark the 14th anniversary of the passing of former President John Evans Atta Mills, with this year’s commemoration focusing on preserving his legacy of peace, unity and democratic governance.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, the Chairman of the JEA Mills Memorial Heritage, Hon. Alex Segbefia, said the commemorative activities will begin on July 15 and conclude on July 25 with a memorial hockey tournament.

Quoting one of the late President’s well-known remarks, Mr. Segbefia said President Mills believed in using leadership to “heal wounds and unite our dear nation” through peace and national cohesion.

“That message remains as relevant today as it was during his presidency and continues to inspire Ghanaians,” he said.

Mr. Segbefia noted that President Mills, who died on July 24, 2012, remains the only Head of State in Ghana’s Fourth Republic to have passed away while in office.

He described the late President as an accomplished legal scholar, academic and statesman whose commitment to democratic governance, integrity and human development continues to influence Ghana’s national discourse.

According to him, the JEA Mills Memorial Heritage is a non-partisan, independent charitable organisation established to preserve the ideals and values of the late President while promoting his vision of a just, peaceful and inclusive society.

As part of the anniversary programme, the 14th Anniversary Commemorative Lecture will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).

The lecture will be delivered by renowned cardiothoracic surgeon and former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, on the theme: “President John Evans Atta Mills: Fourteen Years On.”

The event will be chaired by Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya and former Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The main commemorative event will take place on Friday, July 24, with a wreath-laying ceremony and memorial service at Asomdwee Park.

President John Dramani Mahama is expected to lay a wreath on behalf of the Republic of Ghana. Other wreaths will be laid by Parliament, the family of the late President, his widow Mrs. Ernestina Naadu Mills, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the JEA Mills Memorial Heritage and the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs.

The commemoration will conclude on Saturday, July 25, with the President John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Hockey Tournament at the Theodosia Okoh National Hockey Stadium in Accra.

Mr. Segbefia urged Ghanaians to participate in the commemorative activities, describing them as an opportunity to honour President Mills’ enduring legacy.

“These activities offer us the opportunity to remember a leader whose life was dedicated to peace, unity, integrity and selfless public service. We encourage all Ghanaians to join us as we celebrate his remarkable contribution to our nation’s development,” he said.

Background

President John Evans Atta Mills served as Ghana’s third President under the Fourth Republic from January 7, 2009, until his death on July 24, 2012. Remembered for his humility, respect for the rule of law and commitment to peaceful democratic governance, he remains one of Ghana’s most revered political figures. The annual commemoration of his passing brings together government officials, family members, political leaders and members of the public to celebrate his life and contributions to national development.