President John Dramani Mahama on Sunday praised his Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, describing him as a loyal, kind and humble aide whose public service has left an indelible mark on Ghana’s leadership and governance.
The President made the remarks during a thanksgiving service to mark Mr Debrah’s 60th birthday at the Pentecost International Worship Centre in Accra.
The colourful event was attended by Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, senior government officials, members of the clergy, family and well-wishers.
Reflecting on his long association with Mr Debrah, President Mahama said he first noticed his qualities when he served as Eastern Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Mr Debrah was selected as his running mate.
“I took note of his calm nature, efficiency and affable friendliness. He commanded the executives in the Eastern Region not because they were afraid of him, but because they respected him,” the President said.
He explained that these qualities influenced his decision to appoint Mr Debrah as Minister of Local Government in his previous administration, where he demanded results beyond routine administration.
“In three months, anywhere in the country I went, there were street names and house numbers,” President Mahama recalled.
When it became necessary to appoint a Chief of Staff, Mr Debrah was an easy choice due to his proven loyalty and competence.
“He’s efficient, he’s hardworking, he’s kind, he’s generous. Julius will share his last resource with anybody who comes up to him,” the President said, drawing applause from the congregation.
President Mahama described the rare presence of both the President and Vice President at the same public event as a special honour for Mr Debrah, noting that protocol and security concerns usually discourage such joint appearances.
“One of the major things they tell us when you reach the high office of President and Vice President is not to drive in the same car together. They won’t allow you to do it. Naana and I cannot fly in the same plane together.
“And as much as possible, they avoid us being at the same event together. Unless it’s a very important event, that is unavoidable. So today, you’re seeing the President and the Vice President here at this church is in honour of somebody who’s made a name,” he added.
The President also conveyed birthday wishes from the First Lady, Lordina Mahama, who could not attend because she was away in Dubai performing “grandmotherly” duties.
He jokingly welcomed Mr Debrah into the “Senior Citizens Club,” advising him to now behave more nobly and leave behind youthful dancing styles.
Earlier, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, delivered a sermon on the theme “The Importance of a Name.” He emphasised that a person’s name is their greatest treasure and should be jealously guarded.
Quoting scriptures, Apostle Nyamekye noted that a good name is more desirable than riches and opens doors that money alone cannot.
“A name is not just for identification. All that a person is is vested in his or her name,” he said.
He urged Christians and leaders to invest in love, humility, righteousness, diligence and care for others to build a lasting legacy.
Apostle Nyamekye later prayed for Mr Debrah, asking God to grant him long life, wisdom and divine protection as he continues to serve the nation.