President William Ruto of Kenya has warmly congratulated Ghana’s president-elect, John Dramani Mahama, on his victory in the recently concluded Ghanaian elections. Mahama, 65, who previously served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017, staged an impressive political comeback after losing to Nana Akufo-Addo in the 2020 elections. His return to the presidency underscores his resilience and continued popularity among Ghanaian voters.
In a statement released to the public, President Ruto praised Ghana’s electoral process, emphasizing its exemplary democratic standards and institutional integrity.
“Your Excellency and Dear Mr. President-Elect, on behalf of the Government and the People of Kenya and on my own behalf, I convey to Your Excellency and through you to the Government and the People of the Republic of Ghana my heartfelt congratulations on your successful election as the President of the Republic of Ghana,” Ruto said.
Ruto further lauded the peaceful conduct of the election, citing it as a beacon of democratic maturity. “Your Excellency, I must at the outset commend Ghana for the conduct of the just-ended elections which clearly demonstrated your country’s democratic maturity and institutional integrity, factors critical to the sustainable stability and development of your great country,” he added.
A Testimony of Trust
President Ruto noted that Mahama’s decisive victory is a testament to the trust and confidence the Ghanaian people have in his leadership. “Undoubtedly, Your Excellency’s decisive victory in these historic elections is a manifest affirmation of the trust and confidence that the great people of Ghana have in your leadership, vision, and dedication to advancing Ghana’s development and prosperity,” he emphasized.
Ruto’s remarks highlight the enduring respect and admiration for Ghana’s democratic processes, which continue to serve as a model for other African nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The Kenyan leader underscored the long-standing ties between Kenya and Ghana, emphasizing the commitment of both nations to fostering regional cooperation and mutual prosperity. “Our nations share a deep-rooted friendship and a commitment to regional cooperation and mutual prosperity. Indeed, it is my desire to further enhance and consolidate this cooperation at bilateral, regional, and international foras in areas of mutual interest for the socio-economic development of our peoples and continent,” Ruto noted.
The congratulatory message reflects the broader aspirations for unity and collaboration across Africa, which both leaders have championed in their respective careers.
Transition of Power in Ghana
President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has served as Ghana’s president since 2017, is stepping down after completing the constitutional limit of two terms in office. His leadership has been marked by efforts to stabilize Ghana’s economy and strengthen democratic institutions. Mahama’s return signals a continuation of Ghana’s tradition of smooth transitions of power, a hallmark of its democratic credentials.
Ruto extended his best wishes to the incoming president, who is set to be sworn in on January 7, 2025. “I wish Your Excellency good health, happiness, prosperity and well-being of the brotherly people of Ghana. Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest esteem,” he concluded.
Ghana-Kenya Cooperation
The mutual respect between Kenya and Ghana has historical roots, stemming from the days of Kwame Nkrumah and Jomo Kenyatta, founding leaders of the two nations. Both countries have collaborated in various sectors, including trade, education, and cultural exchange, and remain pivotal players in the African Union.
As Mahama prepares to take office, the focus will likely shift toward how Ghana’s leadership can continue to bolster these relationships while addressing pressing domestic issues. For Kenya, the renewed partnership offers opportunities for greater collaboration in trade, technology, and regional security.
With both nations striving for sustainable growth and development, Mahama’s presidency is expected to reinforce a shared vision of a prosperous and united Africa.
