John Dramani Mahama has been officially sworn in as Ghana’s sixth President of the Fourth Republic.
The historic ceremony took place at the Black Star Square in Accra on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, with Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo administering the presidential oath.
In addition, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was sworn in as Ghana’s first female Vice President, underscoring the nation’s strides in gender equality and inclusion at the highest levels of government.
In his inaugural address, President Mahama reflected on Ghana’s democratic journey and the significance of the day:
“Thirty-two years ago, on January 7, Ghana made its first and most successful democratic transition. Our nation was returned to a multi-party democracy with a new constitution that went into effect, and the Fourth Republic was officially established,” he said.
He also drew attention to the moment’s historical parallel, saying:
“Today’s exercise between the outgoing president, His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and I feels a bit like déjà vu. That is because eight years ago to this day, on January 7, 2017, we shared this same space and performed this same transitional exercise.”
President Mahama outlined his administration’s priorities, pledging to focus on economic recovery and governance reforms:
“We will focus our initial efforts on four critical areas: economic restoration and stabilisation of the macroeconomic environment; improvement of the business and investment environment; governance and constitutional reforms; and accountability and the fight against corruption.”
He further highlighted his vision for innovation and growth in the Ghanaian economy:
“We envisage an innovative and vibrant 24-hour Ghanaian economy, which will also be anchored in agriculture and agribusiness,” he said.
The President also paid tribute to his Vice President, Professor Opoku-Agyemang, stating:
“Nana Jane’s ascension symbolises our collective commitment to fostering a nation where gender equality and female representation are cherished and amplified.”
As President Mahama begins his second tenure in office, he urged Ghanaians to unite behind a shared vision of development and progress, stating:
“The task ahead will not be easy, but with unity, determination, and resilience, Ghana will thrive. Together, let us chart a path of hope and progress.”
With his return to power, President Mahama has made history as the first Ghanaian leader under the Fourth Republic to be elected to a non-consecutive second term, signifying a new chapter for the nation’s democracy and development.
