Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has shared insights into the influential role that Otumfuo Osei Tutu, the Asantehene, played in his decision to accept the role of running mate to Professor John Evans Atta Mills during the 2008 general election.

According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama disclosed the details during a courtesy visit from Otumfuo Osei Tutu at the Presidency in Accra. The Otumfuo and his entourage were present to congratulate President Mahama on his recent electoral victory in the December 7, 2024, general election and to reciprocate the President’s visit to Manhyia shortly after assuming office.

President Mahama recounted that Professor Mills initially approached him through intermediaries, including the late Mr. Kwasi Sainti Baffoe-Bonnie, expressing a desire for Mahama to be his running mate. Despite having plans to leave politics, Mahama declined the offer at first. Subsequent attempts by key figures like Mr. Ato Ahwoi, Mr. Totobi Kwakye, and Mr. Kwamena Ahwoi also met with refusal.

However, a turning point came when Mahama was summoned to Manhyia by Otumfuo. During the encounter, Otumfuo Osei Tutu impressed upon Mahama the importance of heeding the call to serve his country, drawing parallels to his own experience of being called to lead his kingdom from abroad. When Otumfuo later met with President Mills in South Africa, he sought Mahama’s final decision upon returning to Accra, leading Mahama to ultimately accept the role with the condition of serving only one term.

Mahama acknowledged Otumfuo’s significant influence in his decision to become Mills’ running mate, which led to their subsequent victory in the 2008 election. He expressed his gratitude to Otumfuo, highlighting the Asantehene’s crucial role in his political journey and other national achievements, including securing an International Monetary Fund (IMF) extended credit facility for Ghana during Mahama’s vice-presidency.

In response, Otumfuo Osei Tutu commended President Mahama for his humility and urged him to continue demonstrating bold leadership to fulfill the mandate given by the people of Ghana. The Asantehene also advised the President’s appointees to maintain integrity, prioritize national interest, and emulate the President’s humility while avoiding complacency.

The meeting was also attended by Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.