In a historic ceremony at Accra’s Black Star Square, H.E. John Dramani Mahama was sworn in on January 7, 2025, marking his return to the presidency after securing a decisive victory in the December 7 elections. The event drew thousands of jubilant citizens, 21 heads of state, and dignitaries from around the globe, including former South African President Jacob Zuma. The inauguration celebrated Ghana’s democracy and underscored the people’s desire for renewal and change.
Picture: Newly elected president of Ghana, H.E John Dramani Mahama holding the symbolic state sword during swearing-in ceremony
H.E. Mahama’s victory was resounding. Garnering over six million votes, he defeated H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the outgoing Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). His party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), also claimed a historic parliamentary victory, securing 183 out of 276 seats. This gave the NDC a two-thirds majority, enabling the government to pass policies without opposition hurdles, an unprecedented advantage in Ghana’s political history.
Picture: President of Rwanda, H.E Paul Kagame and President of Nigeria, H.E Bola Tinubu in attendance at swearing-in ceremony
The NPP’s loss reflected widespread discontent among Ghanaians, who were grappling with the effects of the depreciating cedi, soaring inflation, and the skyrocketing cost of living. H.E. Mahama’s campaign promise of a “national reset” resonated with voters eager for decisive leadership to address the country’s economic woes and governance challenges.
In his inaugural address, H.E. Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding trust in leadership and institutions. He promised to stabilize the economy, and create decent well paying jobs for the people.
Picture: President of Burkina Faso, Capt. Ibrahim Traore (right) in attendance
The President also pledged to tackle corruption and improve governance. He emphasized the importance of empowering Ghana’s anti-corruption institutions to recover public funds and ensure accountability in public office. “Good governance is not optional; it is the bedrock of sustainable development,” he stated, committing his administration to uphold transparency and integrity.
As he took office, H.E. Mahama made it clear that time was of the essence. He announced plans to appoint key officials within the first ten days of his administration to ensure his government could immediately begin implementing its policies.
Ghanaians will also be looking forward to holding him accountable for the 26 promises he made during his campaign, which he pledged to accomplish within his first 120 days in office. These promises—targeted at addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges, including unemployment, healthcare, education, and economic reform—have created high expectations. The President’s ability to deliver on these and other policies will be closely scrutinized as the nation seeks tangible progress and change.
Picture: Outgoing president of Ghana, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (second left), former president of Ghana, H.E John Agyekum Kufuor (third left) & outgoing vice president, H.E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (first right) in attendance
The NDC’s overwhelming parliamentary majority provides the government with the legislative power needed to swiftly pass policies aimed at addressing the nation’s challenges. In Ghana, at least two-thirds of parliamentary votes are required to approve policies, a threshold the NDC has now exceeded. This positions the administration to act decisively in areas such as economic reform, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development.
As H.E. Mahama embarks on this new chapter, the weight of public expectations is immense. His administration’s ability to deliver on promises of economic stabilization, governance reform, and accountability will define this pivotal era in Ghana’s history. With a clear mandate and robust parliamentary support, H.E. John Dramani Mahama stands ready to lead Ghana into a future of renewed hope and opportunity.