Five things John Mahama said about Akufo-Addo during his inaugural speech

President John Dramani Mahama, on January 7, 2025, in his inauguration speech, highlighted a hidden part of his relationship with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

Mahama reflected on his political journey, highlighting his strong bond with the immediate past President.

He acknowledged the significant political achievements both he and former President Akufo-Addo have attained, from their early days as lawmakers to ultimately holding the highest office in the land.

Same bald head since ages

In a lighthearted moment, President Mahama, expressing his deep respect for President Akufo-Addo, reminisced about their early political encounters. He noted how, even in his younger days, he first met Akufo-Addo with his signature bald head, a look he has maintained to this day, despite the passage of time.

“Nana, as this will be our final meeting under these circumstances, and as I look back on the journey we have traveled together; two much younger men who entered Parliament together with a full head of black hair and you with the same bald head and round eyeglasses, I have to say that you are, without exception, a worthy opponent.”

Johnny nickname

Mahama also reminisced about his relationship with Akufo-Addo, recalling the moment when he peacefully handed over power to him in 2016, a gesture that has been mirrored in 2025.

According to Mahama, Akufo-Addo has consistently extended warm receptions and hospitality to him, despite both having contested for the highest office in the land from opposing sides.

He shared the lighter side of their relationship, revealing how Akufo-Addo affectionately named him "Johnny," signifying their friendship and strong bond.

“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,” he said.

Akufo-Addo has always greeted me with warmth, a smile, and a handshake

John Dramani Mahama described his relationship with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as cordial, marked by mutual respect and warmth.

“It seems fitting that I share this stage and this unique, historical distinction with Nana Akufo-Addo twice. Nana and I began our national political careers in Parliament in the same year, 1996. He has always greeted me with warmth, a firm handshake, and a smile. He is, perhaps, the only person in my life who has persistently chosen to call me Johnny. While we belonged to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect,” he asserted.

Entered Parliament the same year

Mahama also reflected on how he entered the Parliament of Ghana with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in 1996.

“Nana and I began our national political careers in Parliament in the same year, 1996.”

Worthy opponent

He also recognized former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as a worthy political contender.

“I have to say that you have, without exception, been a worthy opponent.”

AM/KA

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