President John Mahama Calls for Unity, Honors Late Diplomats and Defends Ghana’s Image

President John Dramani Mahama paid tribute to the late Ambassador James Victor Gbeho at a state funeral in Accra, describing the veteran diplomat as a nation‑builder whose service strengthened Ghana’s international reputation.

Speaking at a church gathering, Mahama urged Ghanaians to stop speaking negatively about the country, emphasizing hard work, honesty, patriotism and a collective commitment to development while condemning defeatist attitudes.

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson honored the late Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, highlighting his efforts to modernise the Ghana Armed Forces and improve welfare for service personnel before Boamah’s death in a military helicopter crash.

Opposition MP Alexander Kwamena Afenyo‑Markin criticised the Mahama administration, claiming Ghana is “not in safe hands” and demanding accountability for the June flood disaster and other governance failures.

Member of Parliament Yakubu Mohammed sparked controversy by joking about marrying a schoolgirl, reigniting debate over child marriage and sexual violence in Ghana.

During a state visit to Jamaica, Mahama addressed the Jamaican Parliament on Emancipation Day, drawing parallels between Ghana’s and Jamaica’s histories and affirming the shared heritage of the African diaspora.