The president of the republic of Ghana,Prof.John Evans Atta Mills has passed on at age 68 in Accra.

The president who was rushed to the 37 military hospital in Accra early hours of Tuesday 24th July 2012 was confirmed dead at 14:15 pm.

Popularly known as the " asomdwie hene" (king of peace) ,president Mills sought the well being of all Ghanains especially on basic needs like water,sanitation and hygiene.This is evident in the level of commitment made at improving access to quality water and improved sanitation for all in the Ghana Compact under his administration.

President Mills served as vice president under the Rawlings' administration from 1997-2001and became president of the republic of Ghana in 2009,the term which he was still serving till his untimely death.

Born in 1944 in Western Ghana, President Mills held a law degree from the University of Ghana. He earned a doctorate from London's School of Oriental and African Studies before studying at Stanford University as a Fulbright scholar. he was a lecturer of Law at the university of Ghana,Legon and became head of Ghana's Internal Revenue Services before entering into politics.

Meanwhile the chief justice of Ghana,Mrs Georgina Wood has sworn the vice president John Dramani Mahama in as president.President Mahama  addressing the nation said he has "lost a father,friend and senior comrade".he has since declared a week state of mourning in Ghana in honour of the departed president.

President Mills is survived by his wife, Ernestina Naadu Mills, and a son, Sam Kofi Atta Mills.

may the soul of President John Evans Atta Mills rest in perfect peace.

Ida Coleman

RCN Ghana.