Charlotte Osei to deliver keynote speech at 2025 John Atta Mills Memorial Lecture

The John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage has announced a lineup of commemorative activities to mark the 13th anniversary of the passing of the late President John Evans Atta Mills.

The main event, the 13th Anniversary Commemorative Lecture, will take place on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM 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 feature Mrs. Charlotte Osei, former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, as the keynote speaker. Mrs. Osei, a respected lawyer and seasoned public administrator, is known for her vast experience in electoral governance and institutional reform.

The lecture will be chaired by Mr. Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff and a close associate of the late president.

Addressing the media at a press conference in Accra, Mr. Alex Segbefia, Chairman of the Memorial Heritage, said the event is part of a broader programme aimed at preserving and promoting the legacy of a man widely admired for his humility, integrity, and commitment to national service.

He described the commemorative lecture as a platform for reflection on President Mills’ contributions to Ghana’s democratic development and governance under the Fourth Republic.

“Professor John Evans Atta Mills stood for peace, decency, and national unity. His legacy transcends political divides. This year’s theme reflects our desire to place his leadership within the context of Ghana’s constitutional evolution and the values of our republic,” Mr. Segbefia stated.

He urged the general public, civil society organisations, and the media to support the commemoration and participate fully in the events lined up.

“The legacy of President Atta Mills is not for one party or institution it belongs to the nation. We invite all well-meaning Ghanaians to support us financially, morally, and intellectually as we honour a man who served this country with honesty and selflessness,” he said.

The commemoration will also feature a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and memorial service at Asomdwee Park, the final resting place of President Atta Mills. This will take place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 9:00 AM. In keeping with tradition, the ceremony will provide an opportunity for Ghanaians to pay their respects to the late leader in a moment of national reflection.

In addition, a special Atta Mills Memorial Hockey Tournament will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium, beginning at 7:30 AM. The tournament has become an annual feature of the commemoration, aimed at promoting youth participation in sports, one of President Mills’ personal passions during his lifetime.

Mr. Segbefia reaffirmed the Heritage’s commitment to keeping the memory of President Mills alive through education, civic engagement, and community-based initiatives.