Newly sworn-in President, John Mahama, delivered a heartfelt and reflective inaugural address on January 7 at Independence Square, marking his historic return to the presidency.

Among the many themes he touched on, his warm acknowledgement of outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stood out, particularly the anecdote of being persistently called “Johnny” by his political rival.

“The Only One Who Calls Me Johnny”

“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,” President Mahama shared, adding, “He is, perhaps, the only person in my life who has persistently chosen to call me Johnny.”

Mahama’s revelation drew smiles and applause from the crowd as he reflected on the unique camaraderie and rivalry he has shared with Akufo-Addo over decades.

“While we belonged to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect,” he said, stating that their shared journey is a testament to the enduring strength of Ghana’s democracy.

A Rivalry for the Ages

The two leaders have faced each other three times in national elections, creating one of the most storied political rivalries in Ghana’s history.

Reflecting on their journey, Mahama said, “In those early days, we probably could not have imagined that destiny would bring us to the leadership of our respective parties and that we would have to face off three separate times as we each vied for the highest office in the land.”

Despite the fierce battles at the polls, Mahama highlighted their mutual understanding of the greater goal: serving the people of Ghana.

“He and I both understood on that day, as I am sure we do today, that it is the people of Ghana we serve,” he affirmed.

A Legacy of Maturity and Democracy

Mahama praised Ghana’s democratic resilience, describing his inauguration as a celebration of the nation’s growth.

“Today, we are making a different kind of history, one that speaks to our maturity as a democracy, a nation of citizens enfranchised with the authority to determine their political future at the polls,” he said.

The significance of their shared transitions—Mahama as outgoing President in 2017 and now as incoming President in 2025—was not lost on him.

“It seems fitting that I share this stage and this unique, historical distinction with Nana Akufo-Addo twice,” he remarked.

A Final Farewell with Gratitude

In a touching moment, Mahama acknowledged that this would likely be their final encounter under such circumstances.

“Nana, as this will be our final meeting under such circumstances, and as I look back on the journey we have travelled—two much younger men who entered Parliament together—I have to say that you have, without exception, been a worthy opponent,” he said, to applause from the audience.

John Mahama’s lighthearted comment about their physical appearances in the early days added a personal touch.

“I with a full head of black hair and you with the same bald head and round eye-glasses,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Honouring Ghana’s Democratic Legacy

Mahama’s speech also reflected on Ghana’s democratic journey, recalling the nation’s first transition in 1993 and subsequent milestones.

“Thirty-two years ago, on January 7th, Ghana made its first and most successful democratic transition—a reset,” he said, emphasizing the importance of the democratic processes that have shaped the country.

By highlighting his relationship with Akufo-Addo, Mahama underscored the importance of unity and respect in politics.

His reflections painted a picture of rivalry tempered by mutual respect, leaving Ghanaians with a message of hope for continued democratic growth.