The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has paid tribute to the late President John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, describing him as a leader who governed with humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to principle.

Speaking at a memorial ceremony at Asomdwe Park to mark the 14th anniversary of President Mills’ passing, Mr Bagbin said the late President's gentleness in leadership was a strength rather than a weakness.

He recalled that President Mills remained patient where others were anxious, optimistic when others were pessimistic, and confident in moments of uncertainty. 

According to the Speaker, the late President was guided by principle instead of convenience and maintained the same humility and integrity in office that characterised his campaign for the presidency.

Mr Bagbin, who served in President Mills’ administration as Majority Leader in Parliament, Minister for Water Resources, Works and Housing, and later Minister of Health, said those experiences gave him a close view of the former President’s leadership style.

He added that President Mills listened before making decisions, consulted widely before taking action, and never allowed the privileges of high office to distance him from the people he served.

The Speaker noted that President Mills’ commitment to “probity, accountability and a good heart” went beyond political rhetoric, rather shaped his conduct in public office. 

He further stated that the late President believed in strong institutions and envisioned a Ghana where power existed to serve the people rather than dominate them.

Mr Bagbin also reflected on what he described as President Mills’ quiet determination to do what was right, even when it was the more difficult path. 

He said the late president consistently reminded those around him that leadership was about trust, not a trophy.

He further observed that while some people interpreted President Mills’ calm and gentle disposition as softness, those who worked closely with him recognised it as a rare strength—the ability to remain humble in power and principled under pressure.

The commemoration at Asomdwe Park brought together government officials, political leaders, family members and admirers to honour the legacy of Ghana’s third President under the Fourth Republic whose message of probity, accountability and a good heart continues to resonate in the country’s democratic journey.