His Excellency John Dramani Mahama was on Tuesday night sworn into office as the 4th President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces ny the Chief Justice Georgina Theodora Wood.
This was after he had undertaken both the Oath of Allegiance and the Presidential Oath.
President Mahama, until Tuesday, July 24, was Vice President for the late President Mills.
He takes over the remaining term of Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, who passed away at 14.15 GMT at the 37 Military Hospital after suffering a short illness.
The Speaker of Parliament Joyce Bamford-Addo recalled the House for an emergency sitting after an earlier meeting in the day, where a letter was read by the speaker informing MP’s of the President’s decision to travel to Nigeria on Tuesday night on an official visit.
The Oath of Allegiance stated: In the name of the Almighty God swear, solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic of Ghana as by law established; that I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of Ghana; and that I will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana. So help me God".
THE PRESIDENTIAL OATH states:
“Having been elected to the high office of President of the Republic of Ghana do in the name of the Almighty God swear, solemnly affirm that I will be faithful and true to the Republic of Ghana.
“That I will at all times preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana; and that I dedicate myself to the service and well-being of the people of the Republic of Ghana and to do right to all manner of persons.
“I further solemnly swear, solemnly affirm that should I at any time break this Oath of office, I shall submit myself to the laws of the Republic of Ghana and suffer the penalty for it. So help me God.”
President Mahama later read his aceptance speech in which he paid tribute to Prof John Evans Atta Mills and committed himself to the task ahead.
President Mahama said: “It’s with deep sorrow that I address the nation. Our nation has been hit by unprecedented tragedy. We have lost a sitting president who worked so tirelessly for his people. He was taken ill around noon today and rushed to 37 Military Hospital. He passed away at 14.15 hr this afternoon.”
“This is the saddest day in our nation’s history. I never imagined that one day I’ll address our nation in such circumstances. I’m personally devastated. I have lost a father and mentor. I extend our deepest condolences to the family. Our hearts are with our mother Ernestina Naadu Mills. He had deep respect to the office and people he served. He dedicated his entire life to our dear nation.
“He brought a distinctive insight in Ghana politics. He was humble and a good example and inspiration to all of us. Our finest tribute is to maintain the unity and stability of this country.
“Flags should fly at half mast in the next one week.”**
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