As Ghana enters a critical phase in its democratic journey, the leadership style and governance legacy of President John Dramani Mahama have once again come under public and political scrutiny. Serving as president from 2012 to 2017, and now in his second term following a political comeback, Mahama remains a central figure in Ghana’s democratic evolution.
Mahama’s leadership has been characterized by a blend of pragmatism, constitutional adherence, and a strong focus on infrastructural development. During his first term, he prioritized large-scale national projects, including roads, hospitals, schools, and energy infrastructure—moves that won him praise among development-focused constituents but also drew criticism over issues of debt and project execution.
Now, just months into his second term, Mahama is making efforts to demonstrate a renewed commitment to good governance. His introduction of a Presidential Code of Conduct to regulate the behavior of ministers and appointees has been widely regarded as a bold step toward improving public accountability and rooting out corruption. According to political observers, this move is a signal that the president has learned from past administrative shortcomings and is determined to correct them.
On the front of democratic governance, Mahama has consistently positioned himself as a defender of Ghana’s institutions. He has publicly emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law, respecting judicial independence, and protecting the media. In a recent address, he reiterated that the strength of Ghana’s democracy lies in its ability to resolve disagreements through legal and constitutional channels, rather than political confrontation.
Despite these positive strides, critics argue that Mahama’s approach to national challenges—such as illegal mining (galamsey) and youth unemployment—has, at times, lacked assertiveness. While his administration has outlined plans to combat environmental degradation and boost job creation, implementation gaps remain a concern for many citizens.
Nonetheless, Mahama continues to command significant support across the country, particularly among those who view his leadership as stable, inclusive, and development-oriented. His handling of contentious issues, including the recent suspension of the Chief Justice, has sparked national debate, with analysts divided on whether his actions reflect strong executive leadership or an overreach of presidential powers.
As Ghana moves forward, the real test of Mahama’s legacy will rest on his ability to translate vision into impact—balancing development goals with democratic integrity and maintaining national unity in an increasingly polarized political environment.
Stroy by: Alexander Kukah
