President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday denied rumours that he has undergone a kidney transplant in South Africa.
"Yes, I am in South Africa with my wife and children for a private visit, and it is an opportunity for me to spend some time with them," he said in a statement on his facebook page reproduced on his official Election 2012 website.
"I am not in hospital, I was not flown out for medical attention, and I have not had any kidney transplant," President Mahama wrote.
He said: "Our politics is becoming one that dwells on lies and deliberately concocted issues rather than what concerns our people.
"I am hoping that the voice of the people of Ghana in the last elections will soon dawn on us to appreciate the fact that Ghanaians are indeed discerning."
President Mahama said: "My beloved brothers and sisters, my family and I take this opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas, and the very best of the yuletide.
"Lordina, my wife, is sending out a Christmas Message in which she is encouraging all to look beyond our individual families and extend a hand of care and fellow-feeling to others who may be disadvantaged in one way or the other.
"Merry Christmas from me, John Dramani Mahama, your president."