Independence Square almost ready for president’s swearing-in ceremony

With barely 24 hours into the swearing-in ceremony of President John Dramani Mahama, officials at the Independence Square are intensifying efforts to ensure that the place is ready for the august ceremony.

When the GNA arrived at the site at about 1500 hours, the ark had been decorated with national colours while the poles along the principal street of the square had been garlanded in national flags.

Barricades were mounted at designated points and painters, carpenters, liners and electricians and other artisans were seen busily attending to their work schedules.

Chairs had been arranged, stands covered with tarpaulins and security posts have been erected with some military and police taking positions along the gates and the forecourt of the square.

Along the streets beside the square, one could also see passengers and pedestrians staining their necks to take a glimpse of the work in progress at the Square which is expected to host former Presidents Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kuffour and other world leaders.

Commodore Steve Obimpeh, Grounds Committee Chairman of the National Transition Team, on Thursday told the GNA that the general rehabilitation works would be complete by Saturday.

He said in accordance with the 1992 Constitution, the square would be transformed into an open Parliament for the inaugural ceremony.

Ms Akua Sena Dansua, Minister for Tourism also said the Transitional Team had had enough time to take the necessary measures to ensure that the ceremony is well organised.

She appealed to the public to cooperate with the security services for a successful inaugural ceremony.