The planning committee has announced the security and seating arrangements for the swearing-in ceremony of President-elect John Dramani Mahama, scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, at the Black Star Square in Accra.The event will be attended by 10 Heads of State, two Vice Presidents, one Speaker of Parliament, two former presidents, and several representatives from international organizations.The United States delegation will be led by Shalanda D.

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Young, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, according to a statement from the White House. Other members of the U.S. delegation include Virginia E. Palmer, U.S. Ambassador to Ghana; Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles, known for her work in U.S.-Africa relations; and Frances Z. Brown, Senior Director for African Affairs at the White House National Security Council.

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The seating arrangement at the Black Star Square will be divided into three zones. Zone 1, the Parliamentary Sitting Area, will be reserved for invited guests, with entry permitted only upon presentation of an official invitation card. Zone 2, the Public Stands, will be open to the general public but under strict security screening measures. Large LED screens will be installed for better visibility.

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Zone 3, the Media Area, will be allocated for accredited journalists and equipped with facilities to support effective media coverage.To ensure smooth traffic flow during the event, the 28th February Road, Osu Cemetery Traffic Light, Castle Road, and Starlet 91 Road will be closed temporarily. Traffic will be diverted to alternative routes, including Salem Avenue, Oxford Street, and Liberia Road.

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Designated parking areas include the back of the Independence Arch, the forecourt of the State House, and the Access Bank Car Park.The Ministry of National Security has announced a ban on all drone operations during the ceremony, including both recreational and commercial models. This measure forms part of heightened security protocols for the high-profile event.

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