President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has committed to ensuring that the upcoming general elections on December 7, 2024, will be free, fair, and peaceful, marking his final major responsibility as president.

Speaking at an event with senior citizens to commemorate Founders’ Day on Monday, August 5, 2024, in Accra, President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his intention to step down after his second term ends, as mandated by the 1992 Constitution. “I will willingly step down as president on January 7, 2025,” he was quoted as saying by graphic.com.gh.

The president emphasized his dedication to maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy and stability in Africa and the world. He added, “I do so because I will be in good company, that of Jerry John Rawlings and John Agyekum Kufuor, who, in the Fourth Republic, have been privileged by the people of Ghana to serve two terms as President of the Republic.”

Reflecting on his presidency, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the economic challenges faced by the country but highlighted the progress made under his leadership. He noted the difficulties of navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact but expressed optimism about the nation’s economic recovery. “It’s been a very difficult time, but I believe most of us can see that we are now turning the corner, returning our economy to normalcy, and reviving growth—the growth that made our economy one of the fastest-growing in the world prior to the pandemic,” he stated.