Kumasi, Jan. 18, GNA - Members of Kejetia Traders' Association, popularly known as "Mighty 18," and the Ashanti Second-Hand Shoe Sellers' Association have congratulated President John Atta Mills on his assumption to the highest office of the nation. In a joint statement signed by Nana Samuel Kofi Boateng Chairman of the associations, and issued to the Media in Kumasi at the weekend said "we believe it is as a result of your love for peace and unity that saw the Almighty God ordaining you as the President of this great country" "We have followed with keen interest your progress and efforts towards becoming the President of Ghana since the year 2000 when you first made the bid for the Presidency and being a humble person you accepted defeat on twice."

"You humble acceptance of defeat in the 2000 and 2004 general elections greatly helped to keep this country on the path of peace we have enjoyed since independence" the statement said. It said the "Asomdwehene that you have come to be known among your contemporaries, we know and believe that you will lead the nation with the wisdom of God and also continue to keep the peace and unity of our dear nation, Ghana".

"You said in your acceptance speech on your inauguration day that your presidency will be a presidency for all Ghanaians. And we see this as a step in the right direction and your desire for love and unity will indeed see this country moving from strength to strength and in the right direction".

"As a believer of the Rule of Law, we also know that you will champion the cause of Freedom and Justice to all manner of people irrespective of tribe, faith, gender and political persuasions", the statement said.