Ghana is set to host a significant moment in its democratic history as ten heads of state prepare to attend the swearing-in ceremony of President-elect John Dramani Mahama. The highly anticipated event, scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the iconic Black Star Square in Accra, promises to be a grand showcase of Ghana's commitment to peaceful transitions and democratic governance.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson for the John Dramani Mahama Transition Team, revealed details of the event during a press conference in Accra. He emphasized the importance of the occasion, describing it as a reflection of Ghana's stability and reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
**A Distinguished Guest List**
The ceremony is expected to attract a distinguished audience of international and local dignitaries. Alongside the ten heads of state, the event will feature two vice presidents, one speaker of parliament, and two former presidents. Representatives from global organizations such as the Commonwealth and the African Development Bank will also be in attendance.
“This inauguration will underscore Ghana’s standing as a leader in democratic governance. It is not just a national event but a moment for the entire continent to celebrate,” Kwakye Ofosu remarked.
**A Unique Parliamentary Session**
For this special occasion, the Ghanaian Parliament will relocate its sitting to the Black Star Square. This adjustment allows for the seamless integration of parliamentary procedures into the swearing-in ceremony. Preparations are in full swing to ensure a secure, orderly, and well-organized event.
Access to the parliamentary session and the inauguration grounds will be strictly limited to invited guests, who must present their invitation cards for entry. Kwakye Ofosu stressed the importance of adhering to this protocol to maintain the event’s security and dignity.
**Timeline of Events**
Guests are expected to arrive and be seated by 8:30 a.m., with Members of Parliament and other dignitaries following shortly thereafter. At approximately 11:00 a.m., the Speaker of Parliament will accompany President-elect John Dramani Mahama and Vice President-elect Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang to the parliamentary chamber, where the formal proceedings will begin.
**Traffic and Road Closures**
To facilitate smooth operations and ensure public safety, several key roads in Accra will be temporarily closed to vehicular traffic during the event. The affected routes include:
- The 28th February Road from CEPS Headquarters to Castle Road Junction
- Castle Road from the AU Circle to Osu Cemetery Traffic Light
- Starlet 91 Road leading to the Black Star Square
Motorists traveling from La, Labone, and Osu towards the Central Business District will be redirected through alternative routes such as Salem Avenue Traffic Light to Castle Traffic Light and Oxford Street.
Traffic from John Evans Atta Mills High Street towards Black Star Square will also be rerouted to minimize congestion.
**Designated Parking Areas**
To accommodate the large number of guests, several parking areas have been designated, including:
- The back of the Independence Arch
- The forecourt of the State House
- Access Bank Car Park
- Osu Cemetery Car Park
- Ministries Areas
- Ministry of Food and Agriculture Car Park
- Marine Drive Football Park
- Efua Sutherland Car Park
Kwakye Ofosu cautioned against unauthorized parking or attempts to breach roadblocks, emphasizing that such actions would not be tolerated.
**A Moment of Unity and Celebration**
The inauguration ceremony is expected to be more than a political event; it is a moment of national unity and pride. Ghana's ability to host such a high-profile occasion, with participation from global leaders, reflects the nation's achievements and aspirations on the world stage.
President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s return to office marks a significant chapter in Ghana’s democratic journey. His previous tenure was characterized by ambitious development projects and efforts to foster economic growth. As he takes the oath of office once again, expectations are high for a renewed focus on addressing the challenges facing the nation.
**Symbolism of Black Star Square**
The choice of Black Star Square as the venue adds symbolic weight to the event. Known as Independence Square, the location has been the site of many historic occasions in Ghana’s post-independence history. Its selection for the inauguration underscores the importance of the event in Ghana’s democratic tradition.
**Final Preparations Underway**
With just days to go, preparations are nearing completion. Security agencies, event organizers, and government officials are working tirelessly to ensure the ceremony proceeds without incident. The meticulous planning underscores the importance attached to the occasion, both nationally and internationally.
As Ghanaians and the world await January 7, the spotlight will firmly be on Accra. The inauguration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama is more than a political transition—it is a celebration of democracy, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Ghanaian people.
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