President John Mahama’s unprecedented political resurgence took a spiritual turn during a Good Friday service at Independence Square, where religious leader Bishop Dag Heward-Mills hailed his return to office as a historic opportunity to reshape Ghana’s future.
Addressing thousands of congregants, the founder of the United Denominations of Lighthouse Group of Churches (UDLGC) framed Mahama’s second term the first by a Ghanaian leader ousted and later re-elected—as a divine chance to deliver transformative governance.
“Your comeback alone makes you memorable, but what you do next will define you,” said Bishop Heward-Mills, who led prayers for Mahama to embody the wisdom of biblical figures Solomon and Moses, the justice of the Messiah, and the enduring legacy of King David. The ceremony marked Mahama’s first major public appearance since winning December’s election with 57.5% of the vote, eight years after losing power to predecessor Nana Akufo-Addo.
Mahama, initially vice president, first assumed office in 2012 following the death of President John Atta Mills, completing Mills’ term before securing his own mandate. His 2016 defeat halted major infrastructure projects, a focus he revived during his campaign under the banner of an economic “reset.” The bishop urged him to channel Ghana’s founding president, Kwame Nkrumah, whose era saw landmark developments like the Independence Square itself. “Nkrumah built schools, industries, and monuments. Now, Ghana needs your legacy,” he said.
The president, acknowledging his close rapport with the cleric, pledged to prioritize equitable development. “This mandate is a sacred trust,” Mahama stated, weaving religious themes into his policy promises. He cited biblical calls for sacrifice and unity, prompting Heward-Mills to jokingly dubbing him “Pastor Mahama” amid applause. The leader also confirmed the bishop routinely shares photos of his past projects, such as roads and hospitals, as reminders of unresolved needs.
Analysts note Mahama’s return coincides with heightened public frustration over economic stagnation and debt crises. His pledges to revive stalled initiatives and combat corruption now face scrutiny amid Ghana’s $58 billion IMF bailout negotiations. While religious endorsements carry weight in Ghana’s deeply faith-driven society, critics argue tangible reforms ,not symbolism, will determine whether this second term etches Mahama into history as a redemption story or a missed opportunity.
As dusk fell over Independence Square, the echoes of prayer lingered alongside a pressing question: Can a leader once rejected by voters now unite a fractured nation and deliver the legacy he’s vowed to build? For Mahama, the path forward appears as daunting as the expectations are high.
