GHANA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Phillip Mpango yesterday represented President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the inauguration of Ghana’s President John Mahama in Accra, Ghana.
Mahama officially assumed office as Ghana’s 14th President in a ceremony at Black Star Square, Accra, marking his third term in the nation’s highest office.
Mahama was sworn in alongside Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the first woman to become vice-president in Ghana.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by thousands, including dignitaries, regional leaders and international representatives.
The 65-year-old politician returns to the presidency during one of Ghana’s most challenging economic periods in decades.
He won the December election after pledging to address the country’s economic crisis, combat corruption and reduce unemployment, particularly appealing to younger voters eager for change.
This marks Mahama’s third time as president. He first stepped into the role in July 2012 following the death of President John Evans Atta Mills and subsequently won the 2012 election.
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His administration ended in January 2017, and he now replaces Nana Akufo-Addo. During his campaign, Mahama focused heavily on revitalising Ghana’s economy, promising to “reset” the nation by implementing policies aimed at sustainable growth and addressing the cost-of-living crisis.
The December election took place under the shadow of significant economic difficulties, with rising inflation and widespread frustration over governance.
Ghana’s election, widely regarded as peaceful, reaffirms the country’s democratic credentials in a region troubled by political instability. Mahama now faces the task of delivering on his promises to restore stability and economic prosperity.
In December last year, President Samia Suluhu Hassan reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ghana following Mahama’s election as the newly elected President of the West African nation.
In a congratulatory message posted on her X account (formerly Twitter), the Head of State expressed optimism about future collaboration.
“On behalf of the government and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President-elect of the Republic of Ghana, on being entrusted by the Ghanaian people to lead them as their President,” she wrote.
President Samia also emphasised her dedication to fostering stronger bilateral relations between the two countries.
“I am looking forward to working together to strengthen our bilateral relations for the benefit of the people of Tanzania and Ghana,” she added.
Ghana’s Electoral Commission announced Mahama’s victory, reporting that he garnered 56.6 per cent of the vote, defeating Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, who secured 41.6 per cent.
