Asante, in a congratulatory message in Accra to President John Dramani Mahama on his inauguration as the 5th president of the Republic of Ghana,  also underscored the "almost unprecedented peacefulness" of the transition, which he called "a shining beacon of hope for democracy in Africa.
"Ghana's democratic system stands as a testament to the strength of its institutions, and it is crucial that we continue to nurture this peace. In this light, the peaceful handover of power between the NPP and NDC is a vital symbol for all African nations," Asante stated.
 
Expressing delight at the emergence of Professor Jane Opoku-Agyemang as Ghana's first-ever female vice president, Asante described her ascension as a milestone in the country's democratic journey, noting the role it will play in inspiring future generations of women  not only in Ghana but, also, across Africa.
"Her rise to the second-highest office in the land signifies Ghana’s continued commitment to gender equality and inclusivity. It’s a moment that will resonate across Africa".

Asante also praised Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate in the election and immediate former vice president, for his dignified concession of defeat.
"His prompt recognition of the results of the election, and his call for unity, was essential in reducing potential tensions and maintaining peace in the country. This gesture demonstrated statesmanship and a deep commitment to the country's democratic principles," he noted.

The veteran journalist described the choice of Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the special guest of honor at the Ghanaian presidential inauguration as another significant development at the event, noting the strategic importance of fostering stronger ties between Ghana and Nigeria, two of West Africa’s most influential nations. He expressed optimism that this development would pave the way for better people-to-people cooperation and deepen bilateral relations between both countries.
"When the people of Ghana and Nigeria build a stronger, cooperative relationship, it sends a powerful message to the rest of Africa that regional integration is both possible and desirable," Asante stated.

Echoeing President Tinubu’s speech which had underscored the importance of regional integration for the prosperity of West Africa and the Africa and, also, called for improved diplomatic and cultural relations between Ghana and Nigeria to help mitigate historical prejudices, Asante said that intentional measures by both sides aimed at reducing traditional mutual prejudices between Ghanaians and Nigerians would be an essential stepping stone to regional integration. He called for both governments to focus on the free movement of people, trade, and ideas.

Asante also had a word of advice for the new Mahama administration, urging the president to prioritize policies that would foster Ghana's economic resilience, particularly through the development of key sectors such as agriculture, technology, and education. In addition,  the administration should strengthen Ghana's role in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),  and continue advocating for improved governance structures across the region.
"Ghana's future lies in its ability to harness the potential of its youth and resources. President Mahama can leave an indelible mark by ensuring that education, entrepreneurship, and innovation are at the heart of the nation's development agenda. And as the country pursues its path of prosperity, it must remain at the forefront of regional cooperation and champion the cause for good governance, transparency, and accountability. Ghana's democracy is not just a model for Africa; it is a testament to the power of peace, unity, and cooperation. I trust that President Mahama's leadership will continue to inspire and empower Ghanaians and Africans alike," he stated, stressing that the combination of  President Mahama's leadership, bolstered by the historic election of a female vice president, the commendable actions of Dr. Bawumia, and the strengthened relationship with neighboring Nigeria, if well harnesed, would  catalyze a new positive beginning for the country as it strives to fast-track national development.

A former war correspondent who has reported and commented extensively on politics and social development across the African continent for over fifty years, Asante's works have been published within and outside Africa.
He was at the frontlines during the Liberian and Sierra Leonean civil wars, where he is credited with breaking many of the major news headlines from both wars, including the actual outbreak of the Liberian civil war in 1990. With his close friend and associate, renowned journalist Lindsay Barrett, Asante is recognised for his gallantry in Liberia and Sierra Leone civil wars, where his reports became very reliable sources of information on the war for the global press.

With his base in the United Kingdom, Asante was at different times political editor of some of the leading influential pan-African publications in London, including Africa Now  and New African magazines. He also wrote for West Africa magazine out of London. Regarded as a veteran and versatile journalist around media and political circles in Africa and Europe, he traveled around most  African countries covering events and conferences. He is considered knowledgeable on Nigerian politics, having spent years in the country as well as working on ECOWAS issues,  including the civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Asante is regarded in ECOWAS circles as one of two journalists  whose writings shaped the bloc's views on the civil wars,  especially on Liberia.

Veteran journalist Ben Asante

Pan-african journalist Ben Asante.

Pan-african journalist Ben Asante.