Akufo-Addo is the only Person Who Calls Me “Johnny” Constantly

President John Dramani Mahama was sworn in as the president of the 4th Republic of Ghana today, 7th January, after winning the 7th December, 2024 elections by a great margin. He beat his arch-opponent Dr. Bawumia by accumulating more than 50+1% of all votes cast.

In his inaugural speech, despite their political differences, Mahama highlighted the mutual respect and camaraderie he and former president Nana Addo have built over the years.

In his address to the large gathering of different dignitaries and citizens present, Mahama reminisced about the historic moments he shared with Akufo-Addo, particularly recalling the peaceful transition of power in 2016 and how it has been reflected in 2025.

“It seems fitting that it is with Nana Akufo-Addo that I twice shared this stage and this unique historical distinction.”

“He has always greeted me with warmth, a firm handshake, and a smile, and he is perhaps the only person in my life who has persistently chosen to call me Johnny,” Mahama recounted with a smile.

Looking back at their long political journeys, Mahama noted how both began their national political careers in Parliament in 1996 and have since contested for the presidency three times against each other.

“In those early days, we probably couldn’t have imagined that destiny would bring us to the leadership of our respective parties and that we would have to face off three separate times as we each vie for the highest office of the land,” he stated.

Despite their intense political battles, Mahama acknowledged Akufo-Addo’s statesmanship and the respect they share.

“While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect,” President Mahama said.

Congratulations to John Dramani Mahama as the new President of the 4th Republic of Ghana!