President John Dramani Mahama has acknowledged former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as a formidable competitor.
In his address at the swearing-in event in Accra on Tuesday, January 7, Mahama reminisced about his interactions with Akufo-Addo, highlighting the respect and friendship that have characterized their association through the years.
President Mahama stated, “The ceremony today involving the outgoing president, His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and myself feels somewhat reminiscent. This is because eight years ago, on January 7, 2017, we occupied this same place and underwent this same transitional process. During that time, I was the outgoing president after my first term, and he was stepping in as the incoming president, having earned the trust of the Ghanaian populace to govern our great nation.”
“Both he and I were aware back then, just as I believe we are at this moment, that our duty is to the citizens of Ghana. It seems fitting that I have had the opportunity to share this stage with Nana Akufo-Addo on two occasions, marking this distinctive moment in history, particularly since we commenced our respective political journeys in Parliament together in 1996.”
“He has consistently met me with friendliness, a strong handshake, and a smile, and he may be the only individual who has continually chosen to refer to me as Johnnie. Although we are from contrasting political parties, there has always been a mutual sense of respect.”
Reflecting on their shared experiences, Mahama conveyed his respect for Akufo-Addo.
“Nana, as this marks our final engagement in these circumstances, and as I think back on our shared journey, two much younger individuals entering parliament together, with my head full of black hair and you sporting that same baldness and round spectacles, I must say that you have undeniably been a formidable rival.”
