Joint Presidential Transition Team Meets to Kickstart Ghana’s Transition Process

By Jessica Ahedor

The Joint Presidential Transition Team, tasked with ensuring a seamless transfer of power, is scheduled to meet today, Wednesday, December 11, 2024, in Accra. This pivotal meeting marks the beginning of Ghana’s transition process following the December 2024 elections.

Outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who led the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, and President-elect John Dramani Mahama, returning to office under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have both pledged to work together to uphold Ghana’s democratic principles.

A Commitment to Smooth Transition

The formation of the Joint Presidential Transition Team was announced shortly after Mahama’s victory was confirmed. Speaking during his victory address, where he was declared the winner with 56.55% of valid votes cast, Mahama emphasized the importance of an early transition process.

“We agreed on an early inauguration of a joint transitional team as early as Wednesday, the 11th of December,” Mahama said, underlining his readiness to collaborate with the outgoing administration.

The president-elect also revealed that he had received a congratulatory call from President Akufo-Addo. “I conveyed my sincerest regards to him and expressed my readiness for us to work together to ensure a smooth transition in the best interest of the Ghanaian people,” Mahama remarked.

Key Players in the Transition Team

The Joint Presidential Transition Team comprises members from both the outgoing and incoming administrations. These individuals bring experience and expertise to the process, ensuring that Ghana’s governance continues without disruption.

Government Team (Outgoing Administration):
1. Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare - Chief of Staff
2. Godfred Yeboah Dame - Attorney-General
3. Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu - Minister responsible for Presidential Affairs
4. Hon. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam - Minister responsible for Finance
5. Hon. Henry Quartey - Minister responsible for the Interior
6. Hon. Dominic Nitiwul - Minister responsible for Defence
7. Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey - Minister responsible for Foreign Affairs
8. Hon. Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah - Minister responsible for Local Government
9. Hon. Albert Kan Dapaah - Minister responsible for National Security
10. Dr. Evans Aggrey-Darkoh - Head of Civil Service
11. Dr. Nana Ato Arthur - Head of Local Government Service
12. Ambassador Mercy Debrah-Karikari - Secretary to the Cabinet
13. Mr. Edward Asomani - National Security Coordinator

Incoming Government Team (President-Elect’s Side):
1. Hon. Julius Debrah - Co-Chairperson
2. Hon. Johnson Asiedu Nketia - Member
3. Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey - Member
4. Dr. Callistus Mahama - Member/Secretary to the Transition Team
5. Dr. Valerie Sawyer - Member
6. Prof. Kwamena Ahwoi - Member
7. Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson - Member
8. Hon. Mahama Ayariga - Member
9. Hon. Goosie Tanoh - Member
10. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah - Member

Goals of the Transition

The transition process aims to ensure that critical government functions, institutional operations, and national programs continue without interruption. It also provides an opportunity for the incoming administration to familiarize itself with the workings of government while allowing the outgoing administration to account for its tenure.

Central to the discussions are the handover of official documents, financial records, and security briefings. The team is also expected to deliberate on policies and ongoing projects that require continuity to benefit the Ghanaian people.

A Test of Collaboration

Both leaders have stressed the need for collaboration to uphold Ghana’s democratic image. The peaceful transition of power has been a hallmark of Ghana’s democracy, and this year’s process is expected to reinforce that reputation.

President Akufo-Addo’s decision to prioritize the early formation of the transition team reflects his administration’s commitment to a smooth transfer of power. The inclusion of seasoned politicians, technocrats, and experts on both sides underscores the seriousness with which both parties are approaching the process.

Building Confidence in the Process

The Ghanaian public, civil society, and international observers are closely monitoring the transition to ensure transparency and efficiency. Analysts have commended the early steps taken by both leaders, with many viewing the joint efforts as a sign of maturity and mutual respect.

Political analyst Kwesi Amponsah noted, “This is a significant step in ensuring a peaceful and smooth transition. It demonstrates that Ghana’s democracy is evolving and that our leaders are committed to the national interest above partisan considerations.”

Moving Forward

As the transition process unfolds, the Joint Presidential Transition Team will play a vital role in fostering cooperation and ensuring continuity. Both Mahama and Akufo-Addo have reiterated their dedication to Ghana’s stability, setting a positive tone for the weeks leading up to the January 7, 2025, inauguration.

Today’s meeting marks the beginning of this crucial process, and all indications suggest that Ghana is on course for another successful transfer of power, reinforcing its position as a beacon of democracy in Africa.