President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and President-elect John Dramani Mahama have commenced the transition process following the latter’s victory in the December 7, 2024, presidential election.
The two leaders met at the Jubilee House on Wednesday to initiate discussions aimed at ensuring a smooth transfer of power, in line with the Transition Act.
The act mandates the establishment of a joint transition team within 24 hours of an election result declaration to oversee the transfer of authority.
During the meeting, both leaders expressed their commitment to a seamless handover and the importance of maintaining Ghana’s democratic reputation.
President Akufo-Addo described the encounter as cordial and constructive, emphasizing the need for collaboration to uphold the will of the people.
He congratulated Mr. Mahama on his electoral victory and lauded the historic achievement of the nation electing its first female vice president, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, calling it a milestone for national celebration.
Reassuring his support for the incoming administration, President Akufo-Addo pledged his government’s assistance to ensure a smooth start for Mr. Mahama’s team.
“It’s in the interest of all of us as Ghanaians that that should happen,” he said, underscoring the importance of strengthening Ghana’s status as a functioning and democratic state that respects the rule of law and human rights.
The President also praised Mr. Mahama’s efforts in addressing recent instances of lawlessness in the country.
He expressed his appreciation for the President-elect’s timely public intervention to reinforce state authority and maintain order during a tense period.
President-elect Mahama, accompanied by Vice President-elect Professor Opoku-Agyemang and Julius Debrah, co-Chair of the Joint Transition Team, arrived at the Jubilee House at 11 a.m. He thanked President Akufo-Addo for his graciousness in congratulating him on his victory and acknowledged the importance of a robust transition process.
While the joint transition team is expected to address critical security and economic issues in greater detail, Mr. Mahama noted that the preliminary discussions had already provided valuable insights.
He expressed optimism about continued collaboration with President Akufo-Addo, even beyond the transition, to advance Ghana’s democratic development.
“I am happy with the assurance he is giving us that we are going to work together in the interest of Ghana to ensure a seamless transition,” Mr. Mahama said.
“I believe that even after that transition, it would be nice for us to continue to keep a channel of communication so that Ghana’s democratic credentials are consolidated and we all work together in the national interest.”
The formal inauguration of the joint transition team is scheduled for later in the afternoon, marking the next step in the carefully orchestrated process to transfer power peacefully and efficiently.
