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.
