Mahama's Akufo-Addo bald head jab, Tinubu turns Ghana President - Five light moments from inauguration ceremony

The historic inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama and Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Ghana's first female Vice President, was a remarkable display of democracy, unity, and the country's rich cultural diversity.

While the primary focus of the event was the swearing-in of the newly elected leaders, there were several unforgettable moments that will remain etched in the memories of all Ghanaians who had the privilege of witnessing this momentous occasion.

From President Mahama’s subtle jab at Akufo-Addo to his slip of the tongue while addressing Nigeria’s president as Ghana’s president, these lighthearted moments captured during the inaugural ceremony provided a touch of humor to the historic event.

1. Mahama's Akufo-Addo bald head jab

In his acceptance speech, President John Dramani Mahama reflected on his political journey, highlighting his strong bond with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

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

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 travelled together; two much younger men who entered Parliament together with the 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.”

Very necessary 😄 pic.twitter.com/r3iMh1J6Xo

— Felix Romark (@FelixRomark) January 7, 2025

2. Mahama refers to Tinubu as Ghana’s president

A brief moment of confusion occurred among Ghanaians when President Mahama made a slip of the tongue during his speech.

While acknowledging the presence of invited Heads of State and guests in his acceptance speech, he mistakenly referred to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the President of Ghana.

His slip up has resulted into laughter among Ghanaians on social media.

Bola Tinubu now President of Ghana? Eiii Mahama! pic.twitter.com/XjIb2uhn0e

— 𝐒𝐢𝐫-𝐎𝐛𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐏𝐨𝐤𝐮𝐚𝐬𝐞 (@dtadomako) January 7, 2025

“Your Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of the Federal Republic of Ghana and special guest of honor for this occasion.”

3. Gertrude Torkornoo’s happy posture

The Chief Justice captured the attention of Ghanaians as she was visibly moved with joy during the historic moment of swearing in the country's first female Vice President.

Like countless women across the nation and beyond, Torkornoo was excited and jubilant about Professor Opoku-Agyemang's groundbreaking election. As she guided the Vice President through the oath of office, she couldn't conceal her happiness.

A broad smile appeared on her face as soon as Professor Opoku-Agyemang completed the oath. With evident joy in her voice, Torkornoo warmly congratulated the Vice President, saying, "Congratulations, Madam Vice President."

Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang sworn in as Ghana’s first female Vice President#GraphicOnline #dailygraphic pic.twitter.com/2zLkUYFfYB

— DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) January 7, 2025

4. Bonding between Minority leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and the Majority leader, Cassiel Ato Forson

The makeshift Parliament house, set up at the Black Star Square for the swearing-in proceedings, was not without drama between the Majority and Minority leaders of Parliament. In accordance with the standing orders, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, called on the two caucus leaders to provide an indication of how the house should proceed and what steps should be taken following the conclusion of the event.

Ato Forson called on the Speaker to adjourn the sitting to January 8, 2025.

“Right Honorable Speaker, we have exhausted the business on today’s order paper. In view of that I move that this house adjourn to tomorrow at 11 am in the forenoon,” Ato Forson said.

Afenyo-Markin sarcastically called on the Speaker to suspend the house, suggesting it would allow for the continuation of business in line with the 24-hour economy policy championed by President Mahama as one of his key initiatives.

“Mr Speaker, it is the desire of the Minority that this house be suspended so we continue to do business in fulfillment of the 24-hour economy. However, if the Majority leader so pleases, I shall second his motion for adjournment,” his statement attracting laughter from the parliamentarians seated in the crowd.

These two are a whole mood😂😂😂#ElectionCentral pic.twitter.com/yoJtqzxqFE

— Metro TV Ghana (@metrotvgh) January 7, 2025

5. Basintale saluting Mahama

The Deputy Communications Officer for the NDC, Malik Basintale, extended his heartfelt congratulations to President Mahama, offering a salute as a gesture of respect and a display of his dedication to the President.

Referred to as the "Basintale boy" by President Mahama, Malik has made a name for himself among the youth due to his remarkable passion for his party, which was evident during his campaign for the NDC.

He has also built a reputation for holding former government appointees accountable during live TV/radio shows, particularly in relation to allegations of corruption.

Malik Basintale, Sammy Gyamfi, First Lady Lordina Mahama and children congratulates H.E President John Mahama 🤝 #Inauguration2025 pic.twitter.com/7QXJlcKHwj

— CHARLOTTE NICOLE 🕊 (@charllycolegh) January 7, 2025

Overall, the beautiful scenes captured at the inauguration will remain with Ghanaians forever.

MAG/EK

Watch the moment John Mahama arrived for his investiture as President of Ghana