President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, was instrumental in persuading him to accept the position of running mate to the late President John Evans Atta Mills ahead of the 2008 general elections.
Speaking on Monday, June 2, during a courtesy visit by the Asantehene to the Jubilee House in Accra, Mahama revealed that he initially declined several overtures from the Mills campaign team.
He explained that he had planned to leave active politics at the time.
“The first time Professor Mills sent Baffoe-Bonnie and a team to ask me to be his running mate, I said no. I had already made up my mind to leave politics,” Mahama said.
Even after further persuasion by senior party figures such as Ato Ahwoi, Totobi Quakyi, and Kwamena Ahwoi, he remained firm in his refusal.
The turning point came after a call from Manhyia Palace, where the Asantehene summoned him.
Upon meeting, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II challenged Mahama’s reluctance, emphasizing the duty to answer the call of the nation.
President Mahama recounted “He asked me, ‘Are you the one refusing to be Professor Mills’ running mate? You can’t do that. When your country calls you, you must respond.”
Drawing from his own experience of being called to lead the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo underscored the importance of serving the country when called upon.
The Asantehene also promised to personally convey Mahama’s final decision to President Mills, who was then in South Africa.
“When he returned, I told him I had agreed, although I was willing to serve for only one term,” Mahama added
Mahama continued “And Nana(Otumfuo) said, even if you do it for only one day, we’ll accept it”, he narrated.
Mahama’s acceptance led to his selection as Mills’ running mate in the 2008 elections, a ticket that ultimately won the presidency.
Following President Mills’ death in 2012, Mahama succeeded him and later won a full term in the 2012 elections.
Reflecting on the pivotal role played by the Asantehene, Mahama expressed his gratitude.
“Otumfuo was instrumental in me becoming Professor Mills’ running mate, and everything after that became history. Your Majesty, thank you very much and I truly appreciate your friendship,” he stressed.
By: Kwadwo Owusu
