In a candid revelation, President John Dramani Mahama has credited the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for playing a pivotal role in convincing him to accept the vice-presidential candidacy alongside the late President John Evans Atta Mills in the 2008 general elections.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Asantehene to the Jubilee House in Accra on June 2, Mahama recounted his initial reluctance to re-enter active politics and decline the offer to become Mills’ running mate despite multiple approaches from party officials.
Mahama explained that it was only after a personal call from the Manhyia Palace that he reconsidered his decision. The Asantehene urged him to heed the call of national service, drawing parallels with his own responsibilities as a traditional ruler. Otumfuo also promised to communicate Mahama’s decision directly to President Mills, who was then abroad.
This influential intervention led Mahama to accept the role, setting in motion a political alliance that ultimately brought the National Democratic Congress (NDC) back to power. Reflecting on the moment, Mahama expressed deep gratitude to Otumfuo for his timely counsel and steadfast friendship, emphasizing the significant impact of traditional leadership on Ghana’s political journey.
