Asantehene was instrumental in me becoming Prof Mills' running mate - Mahama reveals

President John Dramani Mahama recently spoke about the Asantehene's influence. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II convinced him to accept the role of running mate to the late President John Evans Atta Mills. This decision eventually led to Mahama becoming president.

During a visit by the Asantehene on June 2, Mahama shared his story. He initially turned down several requests from President Mills before the 2008 elections.

“Professor Mills sent Barfuor-Adjei Barfi-Bonye and a team to ask me,” Mahama said. “I had planned to leave politics, so I said no.”

Even after approaches from senior political figures, he remained unconvinced. People like Ato Ahwoi and Totobi Quakyi tried to persuade him, but he still declined.

A Royal Intervention

Mahama reconsidered only after receiving a call from the Asantehene.

“One day, I was in Accra and got a call,” he recalled. “They said Otumfuo wants you in Kumasi. Who am I to refuse?”

During their meeting, Otumfuo criticized Mahama for rejecting the national call to serve.

“He asked if I was the one Professor Mills wanted as vice and declined,” Mahama explained. “He said when your country calls you, you can’t refuse.”

The Asantehene shared his own experience of accepting leadership despite personal desires.

“I was in London when my kingdom called me,” he said. “You think I didn’t want a free life? I had to do it.”

Otumfuo mentioned he would meet President Mills in South Africa soon and wanted an answer from Mahama upon his return.

“So when Otumfuo makes a request, who are you to refuse?” Mahama mused.

A Reluctant Yes

Eventually, Mahama agreed but with one condition.

“When he returned to Accra, I told him my decision,” he said. “But I insisted that I would do it for only one term.”

Nana replied that even if it was just one day, he would accept it.

This decision marked a significant moment in Ghana’s political history. The Mills-Mahama ticket won the 2008 elections. After President Mills passed away in 2012, Mahama became president and later won a full term in 2012.

"The Rest Is History"

Reflecting on these events, Mahama recognized the Asantehene's crucial role in his journey.

“He was instrumental in me becoming Professor Mills’ running mate,” Mahama concluded. “We went on to win that election. The rest is history.”