Ghana's President John Atta Mills dies

Accra, 25 Jul – (ANA) - President John Atta Mills of Ghana has died in the capital, Accra, after suffering from throat cancer. He was aged 68.

John Dramani Mahama, his vice-president, has been sworn in as his replacement in a ceremony in the capital. Mr Atta Mills had ruled the West African country since 2009. While his illness had always been a subject of great debate, it was never officially confirmed, correspondents say. He had always insisted he was well, and planned to seek re-election in December's poll. According to a presidential aide, the leader had complained of pains on Monday evening and his condition had deteriorated. He had recently returned to Ghana after visiting the US for medical checks. (ANA)

FA/ANA/25 July 2012-------