Opinions of Friday, 3 January 2025

Columnist: Henry Kofi Quarshie

John Mahama's Re-election: A testament to perseverance, discipline, and divine purpose

Henry Kofi Quarshie Henry Kofi Quarshie

His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s President-Elect, has etched his name into the annals of the country’s history as a symbol of resilience, consistency, and dedication to public service.

His political journey, marked by an unwavering commitment to the nation, has seen him rise from a Member of Parliament to Deputy Minister, Minister, Vice President, President, former President and now President again.

This unprecedented feat makes him the first Ghanaian leader to hold the Presidential Sword of Office three times. This is a testament to his extraordinary character and God’s enduring plan for his life.

Mahama’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone who feels their dreams are out of reach. His journey is a reminder that perseverance, discipline, and alignment with God’s purpose can lead to unimaginable success. As Proverbs 16:9 says, “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Mahama’s rise through the political ranks reflects a life of preparation and faith, with every step guided by divine purpose.

A Life of Service and Dedication

John Mahama entered public service with a focus on making a difference. His years as an MP and Deputy Minister demonstrated his ability to work collaboratively and tackle challenges head-on. As Minister of Communications, he played a pivotal role in modernizing Ghana’s telecommunications landscape, earning respect for his vision and execution. His eventual elevation to Vice-President, and later President, solidified his reputation as a leader who values consistency and discipline.

What stands out most about Mahama is his ability to navigate setbacks with grace. Losing the presidency in 2016 could have marked the end of his political journey, but he chose perseverance over despair. Mahama’s return to the presidency underscores the truth of Isaiah 40:31:

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” His political comeback is a testament to renewed strength and divine timing.

A Lesson in Perseverance

In a world where success is often sought through shortcuts, Mahama’s story teaches us the value of perseverance and focus. He is a reminder that setbacks are not failures but stepping stones and set ups to greater achievements. As Romans 5:3-4 reminds us, “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Mahama’s journey is proof that perseverance builds the character needed to achieve one’s purpose.

A Call to Stay Aligned with God’s Plan

For every Ghanaian and person around the world, John Mahama’s journey is a reminder that it is God who ultimately elevates a person. No words or machinations of men can alter the plans of God. Jeremiah 29:11 beautifully captures this truth: “'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'.”

For one of whom it was said he could never hold the Presidential Sword of Office three times because all his predecessors held it only twice, he is about to hold it for the third time.

He is also the first and only President to have gone through the ranks to the highest office of the land. He is also the first Ghanaian leader to have left the office as a Vice-President and to the house and returned as the President.

Again, he is the first to have had his presidency split into two departments: First, a four-year tenure, losing his re-election and making a comeback. This also makes him the first leader to be a two-tenure president having an additional six months.

Furthermore, he's the first to have won the Presidential elections by such an unprecedented margin of over 1.6 million votes with an overwhelming majority of parliamentary seats for his party. This emphatic mandate makes him a leader supremely endorsed by the populace.

So, let Mahama’s story inspire you to keep pursuing your dreams in alignment with God’s plan. Even when the path seems uncertain, remember that every step is part of a larger divine purpose. Stay disciplined, remain consistent, and trust in God’s timing, for He alone establishes our destiny.

All said, John Mahama’s remarkable journey from MP to President three times over is not just a story of political success but a testament to God’s providence. His life of perseverance, discipline, and alignment with divine purpose serves as a powerful example to all. May his story inspire us to remain steadfast in our pursuits, trusting that God’s plan will always prevail.