President John Dramani Mahama, during his swearing-in ceremony on January 7, 2025, at the Black Star Square, shared fond memories of his relationship with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Despite their political rivalry, Mahama highlighted the mutual respect and camaraderie they have built over the years.
In his address to the large gathering, Mahama reminisced about the historic moments he shared with Akufo-Addo, particularly recalling the peaceful transition of power in 2016 and its reflection in 2025.
“It seems fitting that it is with Nana Akufo-Addo that I twice shared this stage and this unique historical distinction,”.
“He has always greeted me with warmth, a firm handshake, and a smile, and he is perhaps the only person in my life who has persistently chosen to call me Johnny,” Mahama said with a smile.
Reflecting on their long political journeys, Mahama noted how both began their national political careers in Parliament in 1996 and have since contested for the presidency three times against each other.
“In those early days, we probably couldn’t have imagined that destiny would bring us to the leadership of our respective parties and that we would have to face off three separate times as we each vie for the highest office of the land,” he stated.
Despite their intense political battles, Mahama acknowledged Akufo-Addo’s statesmanship and the respect they share.
“While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect,”.
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