The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has applauded former president John Dramani Mahama for handing over power in a peaceful manner to a new president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

In a goodwill message to Ghana’s president, Nana Akufo-Addo, at his inauguration at the Black Star Square on Saturday January 7, ECOWAS Chairperson Ellen Johnson Sirleaf noted that Mr Mahama demonstrated the greatest act of leadership by allowing Ghanaians to choose their own leader in a free, fair, and transparent election.

“On behalf of ECOWAS heads of state, we express our greatest salutation to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for his leadership in organising a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. Giving the people the freedom and the space to choose their own fate is the greatest act of leadership,” she stated.

“We are proud of Ghana today but that is not unexpected: Ghana has been the beacon of democracy for many decades after years of turbulence.”

She reminded Mr Mahama that he had further roles to play for Africa and beyond. “John, as you leave the State House, please remember and cherish the fact that you have many roles to play in Ghana, in Africa, and the world. We all need your creativity and talents.

I am thankful for the cordial relationship that has developed between our two countries in finding solutions to the problems of our nations and our sub-region. Thank you for demonstrating to all that indeed there is life after the pinnacle of power,” the Liberian president added.