John Mahama sworn in as Ghana’s 14th President

In a grand ceremony at Accra’s historic Independence Square on Tuesday, January 7, Ghana celebrated the inauguration of its 14th President, H.E. John Mahama, who returned to office after a decisive victory in the December 7 election. The event, steeped in tradition and national pride, was attended by a diverse gathering of dignitaries, including more than 20 presidents and heads of state from across Africa, Europe, and beyond. Thousands of enthusiastic Ghanaians also thronged the square, which has served as the venue for presidential inaugurations since the era of Kwame Nkrumah over six decades ago.

H.E. John Mahama—who previously served as Ghana’s president from July 2012 to January 2017—arrived in a ceremonial motorcade escorted by members of the Ghana Armed Forces. Following the national anthem and a salute by the presidential guard, he took the Oath of Office administered by the Chief Justice of Ghana, renewing his commitment to uphold the Constitution and safeguard the nation’s prosperity.

The President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, was among the esteemed guests witnessing the occasion. In his address, Chief Charumbira extended warm congratulations to President Mahama, highlighting the symbolic significance of a former PAP member returning to lead one of Africa’s most stable democracies. He lauded President Mahama’s track record and reaffirmed the PAP’s pledge to collaborate with Ghana’s new administration on key issues affecting the continent.

During an inaugural address that outlined his vision for the next four years, President Mahama underscored the importance of unity, economic development, and the empowerment of youth and women. He also emphasized the vital role of continental integration in fostering sustainable growth, pledging to work closely with the Pan-African Parliament and regional bodies such as ECOWAS to advance Africa’s collective interests. Chief Charumbira echoed these sentiments, stressing that a strengthened partnership between Ghana and the PAP would bolster pan-African goals of peace, prosperity, and inter-African trade.

The ceremony concluded with a 21-gun salute, vibrant cultural performances by drummers and dancers from various regions of Ghana, and an outpouring of celebration among citizens gathered at Independence Square. An official state luncheon later brought together world leaders, diplomats, and prominent Ghanaian figures to honor President Mahama’s swearing-in and mark a new chapter in the country’s political landscape.