Otumfuo Persuaded Me To Become Mills’ Running Mate In 2008 - Mahama

President John Mahama has revealed that the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, played a key role in persuading him to accept the role of running mate to the late President John Evans Atta Mills ahead of the 2008 general elections. Speaking at the Jubilee House in Accra on Monday, June 2, when the Asantehene paid a courtesy call on him, Mahama recounted how he initially declined multiple approaches from the Mills campaign team to become the vice-presidential candidate, explaining that he had intended to step away from active politics.

The first time Prof. Mills sent Baffoe-Bonnie of blessed memory, and a team to tell me he wanted me to be his running mate, I said no. I had already made up my mind to leave politics, Mahama said. He added that even after additional pressure from key party stalwarts, including Ato Ahwoi, Totobi Quakyi, and Kwamena Ahwoi, he still refused the offer. However, things took a decisive turn after a call from Manhyia Palace.

One day, while I was in Accra, I got a call that Otumfuo wanted to see me in Manhyia. Who was I to refuse? Mahama narrated. When I arrived, he asked, ‘Are you the one refusing to be Prof. Mills’ running mate? You can’t do that. When your country calls you, you must respond. Otumfuo, drawing from his own experience of being called to lead the Asante Kingdom, stressed the importance of answering the national call to duty. He even assured Mahama that he would personally deliver his final decision to President Mills, who was then in South Africa.

Otumfuo said, ‘I promised President Mills that I would speak to you. When I return to Accra, I want your final answer.’ And when he came back, I told him I had agreed though I made it clear I was willing to serve for only one term, Mahama recounted. Mahama’s eventual acceptance paved the way for his selection as Mills’ running mate in the 2008 elections, a partnership that led to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) winning power. So yes, Otumfuo was instrumental in me becoming Prof. Mills’ running mate, and everything after that became history. Your Majesty, thank you very much and I truly appreciate your friendship, Mahama said.