Kehinde Fajobi
John Mahama was sworn in as Ghana’s new president on Tuesday in a colourful ceremony held at Black Star Square in Accra, attended by world leaders and jubilant supporters.
The 66-year-old Mahama, dressed in Ghana’s traditional attire, took the oath of office administered by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
He succeeds Nana Akufo-Addo, marking his return to power seven years after leaving office.
“Today should mark the opportunity to reset our country,” Mahama told the cheering crowd adorned in the green, red, black, and white colours of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Supporters waved flags, chanted, and danced to drums and vuvuzelas, creating a festive atmosphere.
Notable attendees included Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traore, Kenya’s William Ruto, Congo’s Felix Tshisekedi, Gabon’s Brice Oligui Nguema, and Sierra Leone’s Julius Maada Bio. Former leaders and officials from across Africa were also present.
Mahama’s running mate, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, made history as Ghana’s first female vice president during the ceremony.
The December election saw Mahama win 50 per cent of the votes, securing 6.3 million votes and defeating Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) by 1.7 million votes.
Bawumia conceded defeat, stating, “The people of Ghana have spoken, the people have voted for change at this time, and we respect it with all humility.”
Mahama confirmed Bawumia’s congratulatory call on his X account.
Returning to office, Mahama faces the challenge of reviving Ghana’s struggling economy, which has been recovering from its worst downturn in years. Inflation peaked at 50 per cent in 2022 but has since eased to 23 per cent.
Ghana recently secured a $3 billion deal with the IMF to address its debt crisis.
Ghana, known for its political stability, has alternated power between the NDC and NPP since adopting multi-party democracy in 1992. With a population of 33 million, it remains Africa’s top gold exporter and the world’s second-largest cocoa producer.
Mahama’s victory reflects public expectations for change, and his administration now carries the responsibility of steering Ghana toward economic recovery and progress.