Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo has emphatically stated that he will not support his predecessor, John Dramani Mahama, as a successor in the upcoming 2024 presidential elections. Speaking to the chiefs and people of Wa during a visit to the region, President Akufo-Addo highlighted his plans to endorse Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the current Vice President and his chosen successor from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), reinforcing a clear leadership transition within his party.
President Akufo-Addo used his speech to express gratitude for the local support he received during his presidency and to reaffirm his commitment to Ghana’s democratic values. He addressed Naa Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo IV, the paramount chief of the Waala traditional area, emphasizing his intention to formally introduce Bawumia as the next presidential candidate during a future visit. “Before the election is held, I am going to come here and pay my proper goodbye to you and thank you for the cooperation that I received from you when I was president,” he stated.
The President’s statements also emphasized a clear departure from the past, specifically pointing out his electoral victories over Mahama, who he defeated in the 2016 elections that brought him to power. “Wa Naa, you know that the man I removed from the seat, I cannot have him as my successor and as a traditional ruler, you understand what I am saying,” he said, emphasizing how unthinkable it was that he would hand over power back to Mahama.
Furthermore, President Akufo-Addo reassured the community of his dedication to maintaining peace and stability throughout the electoral process. “Our country is known as the pacesetter for democratic government across the entire continent of Africa. I want to assure you that this year we are going to maintain that reputation,” he declared. He called for unity and cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner.
This action not only represents a turning point in Ghana’s political history, but it also embodies the nation’s larger democratic ideals. In keeping with Ghana’s standing as an African democracy poster child, Akufo-Addo is laying the groundwork for what he believes will be a peaceful and orderly handover of power by openly embracing Bawumia and rejecting a return to Mahama’s leadership. The President’s appeal for peace and his dedication to his party’s leadership succession plan indicate that he is well aware of the political dynamics at play and that he is taking a measured step to lead the nation toward ongoing stability and advancement under new leadership.
