The 2024 presidential election in Ghana has generated attention from across the globe, considering the pedigree of the contesters, especially the major front-runners. Mahama’s contender who is also the Ghana’s Vice President, Muhammadu Bawumia, has since conceded defeat even before the official announcement was made by the country’s Electoral Commission.
As Mahama takes the reigns of power for yet another fresh term, here are things you should know about him.
Who is John Dramani Mahama
John Dramani Mahama was born on November 29, 1958, into a politically active family. His father, Emmanuel Adama Mahama, was a prominent parliamentarian who served as a regional commissioner under Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah. This early exposure to politics laid the foundation for Mahama’s illustrious career in public service.
Education
Mahama’s academic journey began at Achimota School in Accra and Ghana Secondary School in Tamale for his primary and secondary education, respectively. He pursued higher education at the University of Ghana, earning a bachelor’s degree in History in 1981. He furthered his studies with a postgraduate degree in Communication in 1986. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Mahama also obtained a postgraduate degree in Social Psychology from the Institute of Social Sciences in Moscow in 1988.
Early Career
After completing his education, Mahama worked as an Information, Culture, and Research Officer at the Japanese Embassy in Accra. In 1995, he joined Plan International’s Ghana office as the Manager of International Relations, Sponsorship, Communication, and Grants. These roles sharpened his leadership and communication skills, preparing him for his foray into politics.
Political Ascent
Mahama entered Ghana’s political landscape in 1996 as a Member of Parliament under the National Democratic Congress (NDC). His tenure in Parliament was marked by dedication and effectiveness, earning him re-election in 2000 and 2004. Between 1998 and 2001, Mahama served as Minister of Communications, showcasing his commitment to national development.
In 2008, Mahama was selected as the running mate to John Evans Atta Mills in the presidential election. Their victory saw him inaugurated as Vice President on January 7, 2009. Following the untimely death of President Mills in 2012, Mahama assumed the presidency and completed the remaining term.
Presidential Tenure
Mahama was elected as Ghana’s President in December 2012, winning 50.7% of the vote against his closest rival, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). However, his presidency was not without challenges. Falling global prices on Ghana’s primary exports, rising public debt, and frequent power outages significantly impacted the economy, earning him the unflattering nickname “Mr. Dumsor” (off-on) in reference to the recurrent power cuts.
These economic struggles and public dissatisfaction culminated in his defeat in the 2016 presidential election by Nana Akufo-Addo. Despite the loss, Mahama conceded graciously and handed over power in January 2017.
The Comeback
Unwavering in his political ambitions, Mahama remained active within the NDC and contested the 2020 presidential election but lost to Akufo-Addo. His challenge of the election results in court was dismissed in March 2021. However, Mahama’s persistence paid off when he was once again chosen as the NDC’s flag bearer for the December 2024 presidential election.
Victory in 2024
The 2024 election was closely watched both within Ghana and internationally, given the prominence of the contenders. Mahama’s primary rival was Ghana’s Vice President, Muhammadu Bawumia, who conceded defeat before the Electoral Commission’s official announcement. In his concession speech, Bawumia emphasized the importance of preserving peace and maintaining Ghana’s democratic reputation.
Mahama emerged victorious in a highly competitive race involving 12 other candidates. His victory marked a significant comeback, underscoring his enduring appeal and resilience in Ghanaian politics.
John Dramani Mahama’s political journey is a testament to perseverance and commitment to public service. From his early days in Parliament to his role as President and now President-elect, Mahama’s career has been characterized by determination and a steadfast dedication to Ghana’s development. As he prepares to assume office, Ghanaians and the world will closely watch how he navigates the challenges and opportunities of his new term.
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