President of the Republic, John Dramani Mahama, has described former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as a "worthy opponent," reflecting on their years of political rivalry and mutual respect.
In his inaugural speech at Black Star Square on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, Mahama recalled how both he and Akufo-Addo began their political careers in 1997, when they were elected to represent their respective constituencies in Parliament.
Over the years, they both rose through the ranks of leadership to where they are now.
Mahama spoke warmly of their relationship, despite their political differences, stating that Akufo-Addo had always treated him with a "warm, firm handshake and a smile" and often referred to him as "Johnnie," a gesture he described as unique to their friendship. "While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect," 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 to vie for the highest office of the land." He added, "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, we entered Parliament together, with a full head of black hair, and you with the same bald head and round eye-glasses, I have to say that you have without exception, been a worthy opponent. " Mahama returns: Images from the Presidential Inauguration