John Dramani Mahama was officially sworn in as the 9th President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana at Independence Square in Accra on Tuesday, following his decisive electoral victory last month.
The 65-year-old communication expert is returning to the Jubilee house for his second non-consecutive term after defeating the immediate past Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2024 General Elections.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including 21 heads of state, three Vice Presidents, four ministers, and 24 envoys from across the globe. Historically, the Vice President-elect took the oath of allegiance and oath of Vice President making her the first female Vice President of Ghana.
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President John Mahama, in his inaugural speech, indicated that his vision for the country is deeply rooted in a national reset that will seek to solve the plethora of challenges facing Ghana. He also acknowledged the difficult situation the Ghanaian economy has found itself in and pledged a relentless effort of the government to turn it around positively.
“If democracy is celebrated as a superior means of governance, then its outcomes must be more tangible and benefit them in their individual lives. Any honest introspection and reflection on the pulse of our nation would reveal that many within the population of our nation do not feel that they have benefitted from or partaken in this democratic dividend.
We are a people hit by a severe economic crisis and hardships and in the last few years, we have moved from crisis to crisis. But there is hope on the horizon. Today should mark the beginning of a new opportunity. An opportunity for us to make a difference in our governance and our economic management. We shall reset our dear nation, Ghana,” he stated.
He also congratulated the outgoing vice president, his opponent in the just-ended elections for his outstanding display of statesmanship on his early concession of defeat.
“I extend my warmest wishes to H.E. former Vice President, Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, it was a grueling campaign. And we gave it our all. Your sportsmanship in making an early concession eased tensions and contributed to the early conclusion of the electoral contest. I wish you all the best in your endeavors,” he stated.