North Tongu lawmaker Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has urged all members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) who are contemplating their potential candidacies to succeed President-elect John Dramani Mahama in the 2028 general elections to redirect their efforts toward ensuring the success of Mr Mahama’s forthcoming administration.
He cautioned that the NDC may face significant challenges in the upcoming elections if they do not unite in support of Mr. Mahama. In response to inquiries regarding the ambitions of certain NDC members following the party’s victory in the 2024 general elections, Mr. Ablakwa stated to journalists in Accra on December 9: “Every member of the NDC must recognize that if we do not support President Mahama in achieving success, aspirations for 2028, 2033, and beyond are unlikely to materialize.”
He further emphasized, “At this juncture, it is essential to set aside individual ambitions and concentrate on how to support President Mahama in fulfilling the manifesto pledges. We have engaged with citizens across the country who have articulated their expectations of us. Our focus must remain on this; all other considerations should be secondary. We must commit ourselves to supporting President Mahama with integrity, competence, and unwavering diligence. It is our responsibility to ensure the success of the Mahama/Jane Opoku Agyemang presidency.”
Concurrently, President-elect John Dramani Mahama has criticized the outgoing administration of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, stating that it has contributed to severe economic challenges in Ghana. Mr. Mahama acknowledged that his new administration will encounter difficulties as it seeks to implement necessary governance reforms. “It is vital that we remain attentive to the needs of the Ghanaian populace,” Mr. Mahama stated. “The journey ahead will not be simple, as the preceding government has placed the nation in a precarious position.”
Moreover, Mr. Mahama highlighted the significance of unity and collaboration, affirming that “our ultimate service is to Mother Ghana.”
In a formal gesture, President Akufo-Addo has extended his congratulations to Mr. Mahama on his decisive victory in the December 7 presidential election. This acknowledgment followed the announcement of results by the Electoral Commission, as articulated by its Chairperson, Mrs. Jean Mensa, earlier that evening.
A statement issued by the Communications Directorate at the Jubilee House indicated that President Akufo-Addo is committed to facilitating a smooth transition of power. “I am dedicated to ensuring a seamless transfer of authority on January 7, 2025, and I look forward to collaborating with President-elect Mahama and his team to achieve this objective,” stated Director of Communications Eugene Arhin.
The President commended the Electoral Commission and the Ghanaian populace for their role in conducting a credible and peaceful election, which underscores the resilience of the nation’s democratic institutions. He urged all Ghanaians to unite and work collaboratively to fortify democracy and uphold the rule of law.
As part of fostering goodwill and cooperation, President Akufo-Addo has invited President-elect Mahama to Jubilee House on December 11, 2024, to initiate the transition process. He reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of effective governance and a peaceful transition, enhancing Ghana’s position as a leader in democratic governance on the African continent.
This development represents a significant moment of political unity and highlights Ghana’s ongoing strength in democratic governance within the broader African context.
