Mr. John Dramani Mahama has been officially sworn in as Ghana’s president at a grand inauguration ceremony held at the Black Star Square in Accra. 

Thousands of Ghanaians, alongside dignitaries and global leaders, gathered to witness the historic event, which marked an important moment in Ghana’s democratic journey.

President Mahama, 65, assumes office after a decisive victory in last year’s presidential election, where he secured 56.6 percent of the vote against the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) candidate, then Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who garnered 41.6 percent. This margin of victory is the largest seen in Ghana’s elections in 24 years, with a voter turnout of 60.9 percent.  

Mahama replaces Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, promising to address pressing issues such as economic challenges, corruption, unemployment, and the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, known locally as "galamsey."  

Historic return  

Mr. Mahama’s inauguration is particularly significant as it represents a stunning political comeback. After serving as president from 2012 to 2017. Mahama lost the 2016 and 2020 elections. His return to power has been hailed as a testament to his resilience and the electorate's demand for change.  

The victory also continues Ghana’s tradition of alternating power between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the NPP, with no party winning more than two consecutive terms since the return to multi-party democracy in 1992.  

Oaths of Office

Mr. Mahama Mahama and Vice-President-elect Professor Jane Naane Opoku Agyemang were administered the oaths of office by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo with the latter taking her turn first in the ceremony which also doubled as a sitting of the ninth Parliament. 

They took the Oath of Allegiance first followed by the Oaths for their respective Offices as President and Vice President. 

Inaugural address 

In his inaugural speech, President Mahama addressed key national issues, outlining his vision for the future of Ghana.

Reflecting on Ghana’s democratic progress, President Mahama highlighted the significance of January 7 in the nation’s history. 

“Thirty-two years ago, on January 7, Ghana made its first and most successful democratic transition… Our nation was returned to a multi-party democracy with a new constitution that went into effect, and the Fourth Republic was officially established,” he said. He described the Fourth Republic as a “reset” that paved the way for stable governance and peaceful transfers of power.

Mutual Respect with President Akufo-Addo

President Mahama’s speech included a reflection on his political rivalry with outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. “While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect… You have, without exception, been a worthy opponent,” he said. He recounted their parallel political journeys that began in Parliament in 1996, adding, “Somehow, it seems fitting that it is with Nana Akufo-Addo that I twice shared this stage and this unique historical distinction.”

Gratitude to voters

Expressing appreciation to Ghanaians, the President acknowledged the confidence reposed in him. “To the millions of my fellow countrymen and women who joined long queues and waited in the sun for their turn to vote for me, you have my sincerest thanks… Your courage to bring change will not go in vain,” he assured.

Tackling economic challenges

President Mahama’s speech focused heavily on addressing Ghana’s economic difficulties. He noted the seismic shifts in global economic power, saying, “The combined total of the GDP of the BRICS nations… has been consistently increasing, while the G7’s share has been steadily dropping.” He stressed the importance of positioning Ghana to adapt to these changes and pledged to prioritise economic restoration and stabilisation.

“We will focus our initial efforts on four critical areas: economic restoration and stabilisation of the macroeconomic environment; improvement of the business and investment environment; governance and constitutional reforms; and accountability and the fight against corruption,” President Mahama outlined.

24-Hour economy

One of the standout promises of President Mahama’s inaugural address was the introduction of a 24-hour economy. “We envisage an innovative and vibrant 24-hour Ghanaian economy, which will also be anchored in agriculture and agribusiness,” he stated. This initiative aims to stimulate local industries, attract foreign investment, and create decent and well-paying jobs for Ghana’s youth.

President Mahama celebrated the historic inauguration of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, calling it a “significant page in our history.” He added, “Nana Jane’s ascension… symbolises our collective commitment to fostering a nation where gender equality and female representation are cherished and amplified.”

Strengthening public health

Acknowledging the lessons from past pandemics, President Mahama pledged to strengthen Ghana’s public health infrastructure. “When—not if—the next pandemic or epidemic occurs, the loss of lives in Ghana will be minimal,” he promised.

Call to action

Ending on an optimistic note, President Mahama called on Ghanaians to unite in building a brighter future. “This is a patriotic call to action for all of us to participate in building a nation that lives up to its promise, where hope thrives, and dreams become a reality,” he concluded.

Looking ahead  

The challenges facing Mahama’s administration are significant. During his previous tenure, Ghana grappled with economic difficulties, persistent power cuts, and corruption scandals. Many Ghanaians are hopeful that his return will herald a new era of progress and accountability.  

As the nation enters this new chapter under President Mahama’s leadership, all eyes are on his administration to deliver on its promises and restore hope to the Ghanaian people. The coming months will be critical in shaping the legacy of his unprecedented third term.