10 key takeaways from John Mahama’s first speech as President-elect

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Ghana’s president-elect, John Dramani Mahama, delivered a victory speech on Monday night, outlining his vision for the country and highlighting key steps for his upcoming administration.

Based on results from 267 constituencies, with nine constituencies still to be declared, Mr. Mahama secured 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes, defeating the current Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who received 4,657,304 votes (41.61%).

Here are the ten key takeaways from Mr. Mahama’s address:

  1. A Swift and Collaborative Transition
    Mr. Mahama, joined by his wife Lordina and children, revealed plans to inaugurate a joint transitional team with outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
  2. Acknowledgment of a Decisive Mandate
    He celebrated the “outstanding mandate” from the Ghanaian people, emphasizing the overwhelming support that powered his return to leadership.
  3. Gratitude to Key Supporters
    Mr. Mahama expressed heartfelt thanks to his family, Vice President-elect Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, his campaign team, party members, and the electorate for their dedication during the campaign.
  4. A Historic Moment for Women’s Leadership
    He highlighted the election of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, as a milestone for gender equality and an inspiration for women globally.
  5. Commitment to National Unity
    The president-elect called for unity among Ghanaians, regardless of political affiliation, emphasizing the importance of building “a Ghana that works for everybody and not just a few.”
  6. Vision for Economic Transformation
    Mr. Mahama reiterated his 24-Hour Economy Initiative aimed at creating sustainable, well-paying jobs and emphasized the need for affordable housing, healthcare, food security, and clean water access.
  7. Restoring Faith in Governance
    Acknowledging the governance challenges of recent years, Mahama pledged to reset the relationship between citizens and leaders, rebuild trust, and meet the aspirations of the people.
  8. Emphasis on Ghana’s Global Leadership
    He reaffirmed Ghana’s position as a proud and resilient leader on the world stage, describing the country as a beacon of inspiration for Africa and beyond.
  9. Appeal for Calm and Responsible Celebrations
    Amid reports of vandalism, Mahama urged Ghanaians to avoid criminal acts and instead focus on constructive efforts to rebuild the nation.
  10. Call to Action
    In a note of optimism, Mahama encouraged citizens to maintain positivity, meet high expectations with dedication, and embrace the change ahead. “Let us be brief in our celebration, for the weight of office will be an onerous one,” he concluded.

The address set the tone for Mahama’s administration, emphasizing collaboration, accountability, and a shared vision for a prosperous Ghana.

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