Ahead of the inauguration ceremony of President-elect John Dramani Mahama, which is scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra, the spokesperson for the John Dramani Mahama Transition Team, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has confirmed that ten heads of state will grace the ceremony.
Addressing the press in Accra, Mr Ofosu disclosed that the event will also include two vice presidents, one speaker of parliament, two former presidents, and representatives from international bodies such as the Commonwealth and the African Development Bank.
The inauguration, which will be held at Black Star Square, will include a parliamentary session, necessitating the relocation of Parliament’s sitting to the venue.
Arrangements are underway to ensure the event runs smoothly and securely, with access to the parliamentary session limited to invitees only.
He expressed confidence in the arrangements, emphasizing that the ceremony would serve as an opportunity to highlight Ghana’s commitment to democracy and peaceful transitions of power.
He reminded the public and guests that entry to the swearing-in area will be restricted, with access only permitted for those presenting their invitation cards.
“Members of the public and all the guests are reminded that they cannot and will not be allowed to enter the swearing-in area without presenting their invitation cards,” Mr Ofosu stated.
Guests are expected to be seated by 08:30 hours, with Members of Parliament and other invited dignitaries following shortly thereafter. The Speaker will then escort the President-elect and Vice President-elect to the Chamber, where the formal proceedings will begin at 11:00 hours.
Mr Ofosu also highlighted that certain roads in Accra will be temporarily closed for the event. These roads include the 28th February Road from CEPS Headquarters to the Castle Road Junction, Castle Road from AU Circle to Osu Cemetery Traffic Light, and Starlet 91 Road. They will be reopened once the ceremony concludes.
In addition, traffic from La, Labone, and Osu heading towards the Central Business District will be redirected to the Salem Avenue Traffic Light at the Castle Traffic Light, where it will connect to Oxford Street. Similarly, traffic from John Evans Atta Mills High Street towards Black Star Square will also be diverted.
The designated parking areas for the ceremony include the back of the Independence Arch, the Forecourt of the State House, Access Bank Car Park, Osu Cemetery Car Park, Ministry Areas, Ministry of Food and Agriculture Car Park, Marine Drive Football Park, and Efua Sutherland Car Park.
“No vehicles will be permitted to park in unauthorized areas or drive through any of the roadblocks,” Mr Ofosu added.
