The death of a friend of long standing brings up so many emotions – grief, sense of loss, sadness, reflections on friendship, reminiscences on a generation, the stark reality of mortality, the prospects of eternity, the presence of the Living God. These feelings are fully present in me when I contemplate the sad passing of Enoch Teye Mensah.

E.T, as he was referred to by all and sundry, and I entered Parliament together in January 1997. Even though we were on different sides in the House, he became a very good friend right till the very end. As a result of holding several portfolios in several NDC Governments, he became well-known for his association with Ghana sports, particularly the development of Ghana football. He served the people of Ningo Prampram, as Member of Parliament, for five (5) consecutive terms, and was elevated, during my second term as President, to the high position of Member of the Council of State in 2021.

He was a warm, generous, gregarious man with a keen intellect and wonderful sense of humour. In his element, you could find no better company, and was a good source of advice for me as President of the Republic. I have lost a good friend.

My wife, Rebecca, the First Lady, and I extend our deepest condolences to his widow, his children, the National Democratic Congress, the Chiefs and people of Ningo Prampram, the Council of State and the people of Ghana on this sad loss.

May the Good Lord bless his soul, and give him a peaceful place of abode. Amen!!