JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA’S POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: A BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS -

The 12th Constitutional Appointees of the Government of Ghana must recognize that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama cannot afford to fail the nation.

Having endured spiritual and physical trials throughout his political career, he carries a profound responsibility to deliver effective governance.

Mahama’s political journey is unparalleled in Ghana’s democratic history. He has risen through the ranks as:

 A grassroots local Assembly representative,

 Vice President,

 Acting President,

 President of the 9th Constitutional Administration,

 Ex-President and opposition leader for eight years,

 Now, returning as President of the 12th Constitutional Administration.

The overwhelming mandate of more than 56% in the December 7, 2024 elections, coupled with a two-thirds legislative majority, marks a historic moment in Ghana’s governance.

Such a commanding parliamentary advantage is rare in African democratic transitions, often seen only in a military-transformed constitutional rule.

A Historic Political Feat in Africa

Is there any African leader who has endured such a rigorous political journey?

In Ghana, only Kwame Nkrumah—during the independence struggle—secured a similar two-thirds parliamentary dominance. Achieved under intense public opposition to colonial rule and imperialism.

In contrast, Ghana’s current political landscape, framed within an imperial democratic arrangement, is often described as the 4th Republic. However, based on the country’s actual political trajectory, it should be the 5th constitutional dispensation.

Unlike the United States or the European Union, Ghanaian governance still wrestles with ambiguous constitutional terminologies.

Even during Jerry Rawlings’ era, the legislature never witnessed a two-thirds ruling majority—except in instances where the opposition boycotted proceedings.

Historically, Ghana never envisioned a legislature resembling a one-party state, yet today, this shift has been facilitated by the voices of the electorate demanding accountability and rejecting poor governance.

A Vote for Leadership and Not Just Party Strength

The 2024 elections were not merely a contest between two political parties but a referendum on governance. The electorate compared past and present administrations and made a bold decision—returning a former president to power.

This shift was not solely due to the opposition party’s organizational strength but rather Mahama’s individual appeal and leadership track record.

The nation rejected poor governance and embraced experience over partisan loyalty.

The Responsibility of Governance

Now, with a wealth of experience, John Mahama must rise to the occasion. The weight of history demands that he secure his place among Ghana’s greatest leaders, alongside Nkrumah.

To his appointees

Public service is an opportunity, not an entitlement. Serving in government must be characterized by humility, respect, and a commitment to the people—not arrogance or a sense of superiority over voters.

While appointments may follow an investiture, tenure will be performance-based. No one should be surprised if underperformers are replaced.

In this new era of vigilant monitoring and evaluation, political appointments could become less attractive to those unwilling to meet high standards.

A Legacy Defined by Performance

Mahama’s presidency will be judged by his governance standards. His legacy will be shaped by strict adherence to good governance principles. Poor performance must be met with firm and decisive action.

A symbol of accountability

A whip on the presidential desk—should serve as a reminder that failure will not be tolerated.

This is Mahama’s defining moment

The responsibility is his to carve his name into Ghanaian and African history—not merely as a returning president but as a transformative leader.

By: Benjamin Anyagre Aziginaateeg,

CEO, African Continental Union Consult (ACUC)

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