John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, commonly known as Prof. Evans Atta Mills, was a Ghanaian politician and legal scholar who served as the President of Ghana from 2009 until his untimely death in 2012. Born on July 21, 1944, in Tarkwa, in the Western Region of Ghana, he was known for his academic brilliance, humility, and dedication to public service.

Mills received his early education at Achimota School before proceeding to the University of Ghana, Legon, where he obtained a bachelor's degree in law in 1967. He continued his legal education at the Ghana School of Law, earning a professional law certificate in 1968. His quest for academic excellence took him to the United Kingdom, where he obtained a Ph.D. in law from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, specializing in taxation and economic development.

Mills began his career in academia, where he lectured at the Faculty of Law at the University of Ghana, Legon. His expertise in tax law earned him recognition, and he quickly rose through the ranks to become a professor, contributing significantly to the field of legal education in Ghana. His academic work included numerous publications, and he became a respected figure in legal circles.

In the early 1980s, Mills transitioned into public service, taking up various roles within Ghana's government. He served as the Acting Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service of Ghana and was later appointed as the substantive Commissioner. His work in tax administration was widely lauded, and it was during this period that he gained the attention of political leaders.

Mills entered the political arena in 1996 when he was selected as the running mate of Jerry John Rawlings, the incumbent President of Ghana, on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The Rawlings-Mills ticket won the election, and Mills served as Vice President of Ghana from 1997 to 2001. His tenure as Vice President was marked by his focus on economic reforms and social justice, reinforcing his reputation as a man of integrity and commitment to public welfare.

After Rawlings' presidency, Mills ran for the presidency in 2000 but was defeated by John Agyekum Kufuor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He contested again in 2004 but lost once more. Undeterred, Mills ran for the presidency a third time in 2008 and emerged victorious, defeating Nana Akufo-Addo of the NPP in a closely contested election.

Mills' presidency, which began on January 7, 2009, was characterized by a focus on economic stability, infrastructure development, and social programs aimed at poverty alleviation. He was known for his calm demeanor, inclusiveness, and efforts to foster national unity. Under his leadership, Ghana witnessed significant economic growth, largely driven by the burgeoning oil sector.

However, Mills' presidency was also marked by challenges, including allegations of corruption within his government and internal divisions within the NDC. Despite these issues, he remained a popular figure, respected for his humility and dedication to public service.

Tragically, Mills' presidency was cut short when he passed away on July 24, 2012, at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, just a few days after his 68th birthday. His death was a profound loss for Ghana, and he was mourned by many across the nation and beyond. Mills was succeeded by his Vice President, John Dramani Mahama, who completed the remainder of his term.

Mills left behind a legacy of peace, humility, and a deep commitment to the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians. His contributions to Ghana's political landscape, legal education, and public service continue to be remembered and celebrated.

REFERENCE: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Attafuah_Mills