Preparations Intensify for Presidential Inauguration

The Co-Spokesperson of the Transition Team, Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu has announced the preparations towards the Presidential Inauguration on January 7, 2025 at the Black Star Square in Accra.
The event will mark the beginning of a new chapter in Ghana’s political history, with a former President returning to office and the country’s first female Vice President being sworn in.
According to Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, preparations for the event are well underway, and the grounds at Black Star Square are being meticulously set up to ensure a visually stunning ceremony.
“We are working hard to ensure that Black Star Square is beautifully curated to reflect the significance of this momentous occasion for the people of Ghana”, he said.
Three Zones for the Ceremony
The Co-Spokesperson explained that the ceremony would be divided into three distinct zones, with strict access controls in place. The main area for the swearing-in will be cordoned off, and access will be restricted.
“Access to the swearing-in area will be by invitation only, and all guests are reminded to present their invitation cards to gain entry,” he emphasized.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, stated that to accommodate the large number of guests, the first zone, the swearing-in area, will be strictly accessible by invitation only.
“This area would be completely cordoned off and would be reserved for important dignitaries, including the outgoing President and Vice President, Heads of State, and Parliamentarians, he clarified.
The second zone would feature public stands on either side of the square. One stand will be designated for guests from the Ministries area, while the other will be reserved for residents of Osu. Both sections will be open to the public, with appropriate security and safety measures in place.
“We have made arrangements for large LED screens to be installed so the public can view the proceedings from the stands and beyond,” the Co-Spokesperson noted.
Additionally, the area near the Independence Arch would be reserved for hundreds of accredited journalists.
“We are making sure that reporters covering the event have all necessary facilities to carry out their work efficiently,” he said.
Security Arrangements and Road Closures
In light of the high-profile nature of the event, several roads around the city will be temporarily closed to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and the safety of attendees.
“We urge motorists to note the changes in traffic flow and plan their journeys accordingly,” the representative from the Security Sub-Committee explained.
The following roads will be closed for the duration of the event: 28th February Road from CEPS Headquarters to Castle Road Junction, Osu Cemetery Traffic Light on Lokko Street and Castle Road from AU Circle to Osu Cemetery Traffic Light.
Special traffic arrangements have been made to help redirect traffic. For instance, motorists coming from La, Labone, and Osu toward the Central Business District (CBD) will be diverted to alternative routes such as the Salem Avenue Traffic Light and Oxford Street.
“We ask that all motorists cooperate with traffic police officers and follow the designated routes,” the representative from the Security Sub-Committee said.
Additionally, several car parks have been designated for event attendees, including locations at the Independence Arch, the State House, and the Ministries Area.
“We have identified multiple parking areas to ensure convenience for all our guests, and traffic officers will assist in directing cars to the right spots,” the representative from the Security Sub-Committee added.
International Guests and Diplomatic Protocol
The event would also see the participation of several high-ranking international dignitaries. Ten Heads of State, two Vice Presidents, and leaders of major international organizations such as the Commonwealth and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have confirmed their attendance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ghana Immigration Service, the State Protocol Department, and various security agencies, is coordinating the arrival and departure of these distinguished guests.
A special welcome ceremony would be held at the airport for foreign Heads of State and diplomats.
“We are looking forward to receiving our international guests with the highest level of courtesy and hospitality,” the spokesperson noted.
Media and Communications
In line with international best practices, the event will feature centralized TV production, with a clean feed provided to all television stations. This approach is aimed at reducing the number of accredited personnel in the restricted inner perimeter around the swearing-in area. Over 700 media accreditation applications have been received, with special provisions made for TV broadcasters and photographers.
Media personnel will be screened to confirm their identity, and access to the restricted zone will be strictly controlled.
“All accredited journalists will be assigned specific positions to ensure they can cover the event without disrupting the proceedings,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained.
For those covering the event outside the restricted zones, spaces have been allocated for live broadcasts and discussions.
“We want to ensure that all media outlets have the opportunity to engage with guests at the event from their preferred locations, while maintaining security protocols,” he added.