In a remarkable display of Ghana’s commitment to democracy, President H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo addressed the inaugural meeting of the Presidential Transition Team.
Speaking to an audience that included government officials, members of the Peace Council, and other dignitaries, the President reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to a seamless transfer of power.
“This meeting and the processes we’re about to undertake are firmly grounded in the Presidential Transition Act of 2012, Act 845, which provides the legal framework for an orderly and transparent transition.’’
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
President Akufo-Addo extended heartfelt congratulations to the President-elect, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, and the Vice President-elect, Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
He highlighted the significance of the election of Professor Opoku-Agyemang as Ghana’s first female Vice President-elect.
“This pioneering achievement underscores the strides our nation is making toward gender equality and inclusivity in governance. I wish them luck and God’s blessings in the discharge of their high responsibilities.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
Acknowledging the importance of smooth transitions in governance, President Akufo-Addo praised the foresight of the Fifth Parliament of the Fourth Republic for instituting the Presidential Transition Act.
“With the adoption of the Presidential Transition Act 2012, Act 845, we have established a robust framework for managing transitions, safeguarding the gains of our democratic journey.’’
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
He further outlined the composition of the transition team, which includes key government officials such as the Chief of Staff, the Attorney General, and ministers from various sectors.
The President underscored the critical role of the transition team. He reiterated;
“The functions of the transition team are clear, ensuring a proper and seamless handover of executive authority, daily national security briefings to the president-elect, and the due discharge of financial obligations to Article 71 office holders.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
He urged the team to approach their duties with patriotism and a focus on the interests of the Ghanaian people.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo highlighted Ghana’s reputation. He emphasized;
“Ghana stands out as a beacon of democracy and stability, showcasing the strength of our institutions and the maturity of our people. Democracy thrives in Ghana even in challenging times.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
The President called for a spirit of transparency, he emphasized; “The people of Ghana are counting on us to prioritize their interests above all else,” he reminded them.
“The strength of our democracy lies not just in the conduct of elections but also in respect for its outcomes and the orderly handing over of power.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
On a positive note toward the end of his address, President Akufo-Addo shared encouraging news about Ghana’s economic growth.
“The Minister of Finance has just informed me on my way here that the third-quarter results of the economy show growth of 7.2%, making the average growth rate for the first three quarters 6.3%. We are indeed back to the pre-COVID era of growth.’’
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
Commitment to a United Ghana
The President concluded his address by reiterating the need for collective responsibility. He indicated;
“This transition is not an end but a continuation of Ghana’s democratic journey, which serves as a model for our region and beyond. Let us continue to build a nation that serves as an inspiration to others, united in its diversity and steadfast in its pursuit of progress.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
President Akufo-Addo’s speech reaffirmed Ghana’s position as a leader in democratic governance, setting a high standard for peaceful transitions of power in Africa.
His emphasis on collaboration, transparency, and unity serves as a guiding principle for the transition team and the nation as a whole.
“May God bless us all and our homeland Ghana, and make her great and strong,” he concluded.
