In an unforgettable moment of joy, Former President John Dramani Mahama, brimming with excitement, showcased his remarkable dance skills as he readied himself to deliver his acceptance speech at the Auditorium of the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale on Monday afternoon, May 15, 2023.
The former president’s energetic dance routine, onlookers understood, was an expression of his sheer joy at being re-elected as the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
A multitude of party executives, delegates, members, and supporters, alongside friends and family, gathered at the Auditorium to witness Mahama deliver his acceptance speech.
Before taking the podium, Mahama enthralled the audience with his astonishing dance moves, clad in a white smock and brandishing a horse tail.
With the enchanting melodies of traditional music from northern Ghana guiding his steps, he swayed and twirled to the rhythm.
Amid thunderous cheers and applause, Mahama moved his body to the resounding beats emanating from traditional drums bouncing off the walls of the auditorium.
He was enveloped by a traditional dance group as he danced his heart away, eventually taking his seat where his wife, Lordina Mahama, awaited him, beaming with pride.
The spectacle didn’t end there. Following in Mahama’s footsteps, was his running mate for the 2020 general elections, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, who also gracefully displayed her own captivating dance moves flanged also by the dancers.
During his acceptance speech, Mahama expressed gratitude to the NDC delegates and supporters for their unwavering confidence and trust.
He outlined his vision for Ghana’s development and made a promise to deliver a brighter future for all Ghanaians if elected as president once again.
His re-election as flagbearer for the NDC marks Mahama’s second bid for presidency since leaving office in 2017. On May 14, 2023, he emerged victorious in the NDC’s presidential primaries, securing a staggering 98.9% of the total valid votes cast, triumphing over his sole contender, former KMA boss Kojo Bonsu.
His next challenge lies ahead as he prepares to face the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the main rival party, who are yet to hold their primaries and select a formidable candidate for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Notably, Mahama boasts an impressive background as a communication expert, historian, writer, and former member of parliament and minister of communication. He is also the first vice president to assume the presidency following the sudden demise of his predecessor, John Evans Atta Mills, in 2012.
Additionally, he is the first Ghanaian head of state to be born after the country’s independence in 1957.