President-elect John Dramani Mahama has emphasised his grounded approach to leadership, stating that he remains unfazed by the allure of power or the fleeting trappings of high office.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service at the Assemblies of God Church in Accra on Sunday, December 15, Mahama reflected on the humbling lessons he has learned throughout his political journey.

He underscored the importance of staying connected to the realities of leadership, even after his resounding victory in the December 7 general elections.

The President-elect also used the occasion to call for unity and collective effort, urging Ghanaians to join him in tackling the challenges facing the nation.

During the Thanksgiving service, Mahama expressed gratitude for the support he received during his years out of office and added that “the Christmas hampers stopped coming” when he lost the 2016 elections.

“When I lost in 2016, the Christmas hampers stopped coming. The many people who used to come to my gate and come and try to get into my house to see me for a minute stopped coming. It was only my siblings, my family, my closest friends and others, my church members who continued to stand closely to me.

“So for me, these trappings of power don’t get to my head. I know that all the praises and blessings you will be showered with by people are temporary, and it is because of the word president attached to your name. One day it will go.”

Mahama also used the occasion to thank Ghanaians for their overwhelming trust in him, promising to lead with humility and a renewed sense of purpose.

He stressed that his victory in the 2024 elections was not an opportunity to bask in personal glory but a mandate to work tirelessly for the betterment of the country.