Mahama marks one year back in office, says tough choices have set Ghana on a new path
8th January 2026
President John Dramani Mahama has taken stock of his first year in office since returning to power, acknowledging that his administration has made hard and sometimes unpopular choices in a bid to stabilise Ghana’s economy and restore public confidence.
Speaking at a non-denominational thanksgiving service on January 7, 2026 — exactly one year after his inauguration — the President said the decisions taken over the past 12 months were necessary to reset the nation, even if their benefits are not yet fully felt by many citizens.
According to President Mahama, the reforms introduced so far have helped lay a solid and lasting foundation for Ghana’s long-term recovery and growth.
“My brothers and sisters, as we reflect on the year behind us, we must do so with honesty,” he told the congregation. “We have taken difficult decisions. We have embarked on difficult reforms. And we have laid foundations that may not yet be visible, but are essential for the sustainable progress of our country.”
He explained that his government has deliberately focused on economic stabilisation, institutional renewal, social protection and rebuilding trust — both at home and on the international stage — as cornerstones of its agenda.
“The work we have begun is far from complete,” the President added. “But it is necessary work.”
President Mahama stressed that national advancement cannot be judged by figures and graphs alone. True progress, he said, is reflected in renewed hope, restored trust and a regained sense of direction among the people.
As he begins the second year of his four-year mandate, the President reaffirmed his commitment to ethical leadership and people-centred governance, with particular attention to those most at risk of being left behind.
“Today, we recommit ourselves to leadership rooted in service, not self,” he said. “We recommit to governance defined by integrity, competence and compassion.”
He further pledged that his administration would remain open and responsive, especially to the concerns of the vulnerable, the youth and citizens who feel marginalised.
“We recommit to listening — especially to voices that are often unheard,” President Mahama said. “And we recommit to the unity of our nation, because Ghana’s greatest strength has always been our ability to rise above division and work together for the common good.”
The President concluded by assuring Ghanaians that his government remains focused on pursuing policies that foster inclusive growth, social cohesion and national renewal throughout the remainder of its term.