Newly elected President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama has lamented over the level of confidence Ghanaians presently have in democracy, offering to chart a new path forward.
The president said his compatriots do not feel they have reaped the rewards of the much-touted democratic system of government.
In his inaugural address, he asserted that it was incumbent on his new administration to reset course by enhancing good governance and delivering for the people.
“While Ghanaians take great pride in our thriving democracy, they are deeply dissatisfied with the quality of governance over the years and have openly voiced that dissatisfaction through the decisive actions that they undertake at the elections.
“Our people also understand that democracy is not just a token adorned with periodic elections followed by pomp and pageantry with the establishment of a new government. They expect that if democracy is celebrated as a superior means of governance, then it outcomes must be more tangible and benefit them in their individual lives.
“Any honest introspection and reflection on the pulse of our nation will reveal that many within our population do not feel that they have benefited from or partaken in this democratic dividend,” he underscored.
He noted that his inauguration as the 6th President of the 4th Republic was an “opportunity for us to make a difference in our governance and our economic management”.
President Mahama assured the audience that his administration “shall reset our nation Ghana”.
The president’s inauguration was attended by both living former presidents, Nana Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential Candidate and former Vice-President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was also in attendance with his spouse.
The event was also graced with the presence of dozens of African and world leaders including the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was Special Guest of Honour.
