Charlotte Kesson-Smith Osei, former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, has marked her 31st anniversary at the Ghana Bar by reflecting on the leadership lessons she learned from her mentor, the late President John Evans Atta Mills (President of Ghana from 2009-2012). Osei, who was a former student and mentee of Prof. Mills, drew on his legacy to outline ten timeless principles of leadership, emphasizing his profound impact on her career and on national life.
The reflection follows a memorial lecture Osei delivered in July 2025 in honor of Prof. Mills. She highlighted that Mills’ leadership was characterized by integrity, which she called a “silent superpower,” and humility, citing his commitment to being a “President for all Ghanaians.” Among the lessons shared, Osei stressed that great leaders welcome criticism, recalling an instance where Mills admitted, “You were right, and I was wrong.” She further noted that Mills viewed leadership as service, not privilege, embodying a servant leader model.
Beyond personal character, Osei pointed to Mills’ focus on investing in the next generation through mentorship and his role as an active peacemaker, believing peace must be underpinned by justice. Other critical lessons she derived included the necessity of consistent character, demanding excellence while providing support, and championing inclusive leadership by creating opportunities for underrepresented groups, particularly young women. Osei concluded that Mills’ life reminds contemporary leaders that true leadership must be rooted in integrity, humility, and genuine service, challenging them to “lead with character and lift others as we climb.”
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
