President-elect John Dramani Mahama paid a visit to the Jubilee House on Wednesday, December 11, at the invitation of outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The meeting marked the inauguration of a joint transitional team to facilitate a seamless transfer of power following Mr. Mahama’s recent electoral victory.
Before the official discussions, the two leaders shared a brief and amicable interaction. President Akufo-Addo emphasized his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition, describing the meeting as an opportunity to extend his full support to the incoming administration.
“One of the reasons I invited him earlier than scheduled was to assure him of my full support and that of my government in the transitional process, so that this administration begins on the best footing,” President Akufo-Addo stated. He added, “It is in all our interests as Ghanaians that I brought him here.”
The atmosphere at the meeting was notably cooperative, contrasting the contentious exchanges that characterized the election campaign.
Speaking to journalists, President Akufo-Addo highlighted his longstanding relationship with Mr. Mahama and acknowledged his familiarity with the presidency.
“He’s no stranger here—he was here before I came. He’s back now, and he knows exactly what this entails,” President Akufo-Addo remarked with a smile.
President-elect Mahama also reflected warmly on the meeting, expressing gratitude for the assurances received and recounting a call from President Akufo-Addo after the election results were declared.
“After the results were announced, His Excellency called to congratulate me. I had the opportunity this morning to thank him for that gracious gesture,” Mr. Mahama said.
He further noted, “We had a cordial preliminary meeting to set up the transitional team. I’m very happy with the cooperative spirit shown, and we’re optimistic about working together in Ghana’s best interest.”
The President-elect expressed his belief that ongoing collaboration between the two sides would strengthen Ghana’s democratic credentials and foster national development.
“I’m encouraged by the assurances given. We will work together to ensure a seamless transition and keep communication open even beyond the handover to consolidate our democracy and serve the national interest,” he stated.
On Tuesday, Mr. Mahama named a 10-member transition team, co-chaired by former Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, to oversee the handover process. President Akufo-Addo also appointed representatives to constitute the government’s side of the team, in accordance with Section 1 (1) of the Presidential (Transition) Act, 2012 (Act 845).
Both leaders have reiterated their commitment to a smooth transition, signaling a promising start to Ghana’s next chapter.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
