In light of the recent assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump, John Dramani Mahama, the former President of Ghana and current flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has expressed deep concern about the implications for Ghana’s upcoming elections scheduled for December 7.

The former President advocated for peace and decorum in Ghana’s political discourse, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the country’s democratic values and ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process.

“What happened in Pennsylvania makes me think even more about the upcoming elections in our country and what we must do to have free, peaceful elections and a smooth transition.”
John Dramani Mahama, the former President of Ghana and current flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)

Mahama highlighted Ghana’s competitive advantages, which he identified as its people, natural resources, and adherence to the principles of freedom and justice. He noted that while Ghana’s people and resources are divine gifts, the preservation of justice and freedom depends on the collective efforts of its citizens.

The former President expressed pride in Ghana being recognized as a beacon of democracy in Africa, underscoring the need for vigilance to protect these values, especially during high-stakes elections.

Mahama called for unity among all Ghanaians, emphasizing that the nation belongs to everyone and should be passed down to future generations intact.

“We bask in the accolades but are often oblivious that justice and freedom are principles that require constant work to maintain. As a people, we must exercise eternal vigilance to protect our precious possessions of justice and freedom.”
John Dramani Mahama, the former President of Ghana and current flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)

Ensuring Free and Fair Elections

The former president highlighted the crucial role of free elections in sustaining justice and freedom in Ghana. He expressed concerns over the politicization of key state institutions, including the Electoral Commission and the Supreme Court, under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration. Such developments, he warned, could undermine the people’s sovereign will.

“Free elections that allow our people to express their sovereign will are absolutely necessary for sustaining justice and freedom in our dear nation, Ghana,” Mahama asserted. He warned against actions that could subvert the electoral process, stressing the need for impartiality in the institutions overseeing the elections.

The former president also addressed concerns about the politicization of key state institutions involved in the electoral process under the current administration, suggesting that such actions could undermine public confidence in the electoral system.

Mahama invoked a Shakespearean analogy to remind Ghanaians that their roles in the nation’s history are temporary, but the nation itself is eternal. He condemned attitudes of entitlement and delusions of grandeur in politics, emphasizing that Ghana is a collective inheritance, not a personal possession.

Mahama’s statement began by addressing the tense political climate in the United States as it approaches the November presidential election. He noted the heightened stakes and the intense political rhetoric from both the Democratic and Republican parties.

The assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Pennsylvania has only added to the existing tension, underscoring the dangerous potential of fervent electoral passions, even in a well-established democracy like the U.S.

This statement comes amid growing concerns both domestically and internationally about the potential for electoral violence and the erosion of democratic norms.

As Ghana prepares for its general elections, the words of its former leader serve as a timely reminder of the values that have historically defined the nation’s democratic journey. Mahama’s appeal for unity, peace, and adherence to democratic principles underscores the importance of safeguarding Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.

John Dramani Mahama’s statement highlights the interconnectedness of global democratic challenges and the shared responsibility of citizens and leaders alike to uphold the values of freedom, justice, and peaceful political discourse. As Ghana approaches its pivotal elections, his words resonate as a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize national unity and the preservation of democratic ideals.