Key Points
- Ten heads of state confirmed for the historic event.
- Black Star Square will host Parliament’s special session.
- Ghana highlights its commitment to peaceful democratic transitions.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson for the John Dramani Mahama Transition Team, announced that ten heads of state will attend President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s inauguration on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, at Black Star Square in Accra.
10 heads of state and global dignitaries to attend
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Ofosu said that two past presidents, a speaker of parliament, two vice presidents, and leaders from foreign institutions including the African Development Bank and the Commonwealth would also be present at the ceremony.
Parliament’s meeting has been moved to Black Star Square for the inauguration, which will also include a parliamentary session.
Ofosu stated that plans are in place to guarantee the event proceeds safely and smoothly. Only those who have been invited will be able to enter the legislative session.
“Invitation cards must be presented, and the public and all guests are reminded that entry to the swearing-in area will be strictly by invitation,” Ofosu stated.
As reported by Joy news, members of Parliament and other officials are scheduled to arrive shortly after guests are seated, which is anticipated to happen about 8:30 a.m. The President-elect and Vice President-elect will be escorted to the chamber by the Speaker of Parliament, and formal proceedings will start at 11:00 a.m.
Road closures and diversions planned to ensure smooth logistics
Ofosu also scheduled temporary traffic restrictions throughout Accra. The routes that are impacted are Starlet 91 Road, Castle Road, which runs from the AU Circle to the Osu Cemetery Traffic Light, and 28th February Road, which runs from CEPS Headquarters to the Castle Road Junction. Following the ceremony, the roads will reopen.
At the Salem Avenue Traffic Light, which connects to Oxford Street, traffic from La, Labone, and Osu that is traveling into the Central Business District will be rerouted. Additionally, traffic heading toward Black Star Square from John Evans Atta Mills High Street will be rerouted.
Access Bank Car Park, Osu Cemetery Car Park, Ministry Areas, Ministry of Food and Agriculture Car Park, Marine Drive Football Park, Efua Sutherland Car Park, the State House Forecourt, and the rear of the Independence Arch are all designated parking lots for the event.
Ofosu declared, “No vehicles will be permitted to park in unapproved areas or pass through roadblocks.”
The ceremony would demonstrate Ghana’s dedication to democracy and peaceful handovers of power, the spokeswoman underlined.
