LIBERIA: Mahama’s Return Sparks Hope For Weah In 2029

The trend of one-term presidents staging political comes back continues to unfold, with former Ghanaian President John Mahama reclaiming power in a fiercely contested election.

This development not only mirrors recent global political shifts—like Donald Trump’s re-election campaign in the U.S.—but also poses a compelling question for Liberian politics: could George Weah follow suit in 2029?

Mahama’s resurgence marks a significant moment in Ghanaian political history.

Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia conceded defeat in a move that surprised many, as official results had yet to be declared.

His acceptance was based on internal party data that indicated a decisive victory for Mahama and his National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Bawumia described his concession as a step to preserve Ghana’s democratic integrity amid rising tensions.

As jubilant NDC supporters flooded the streets across the country, the opposition celebrated what they called a vote for change.

Amid Ghana’s worst economic crisis in decades, the electorate was motivated by frustration over rising costs, unemployment, and debt—a narrative that resonated deeply with Mahama’s promise to rescue the nation.

Yet, this return is not without challenges. Mahama’s prior administration faced accusations of mismanagement and corruption, casting a shadow on his renewed mandate.

Born into privilege in the northern town of Damongo, Mahama’s political ascent was shaped by personal trials.

His father, a prominent minister, endured imprisonment during a military coup, an experience that deeply influenced Mahama’s worldview.

Educated at prestigious institutions like Achimota School and Moscow’s Institute of Social Sciences, he returned to Ghana to embark on a political career spanning three decades.

Mahama’s earlier presidency from 2012 to 2017 was a mix of achievements and controversies.

His administration was lauded for infrastructure projects but criticized for persistent power outages and economic instability.

Dubbed “Mr. Dumsor,” a nickname reflecting the frequent blackouts under his watch, Mahama faced voter dissatisfaction in the 2016 elections, leading to his ousting by Nana Akufo-Addo.

This victory reflects a broader pattern in African politics, where economic hardships often catalyze the return of former leaders.

Under Akufo-Addo, Ghana’s economy deteriorated, with inflation soaring and public debt spiraling.

Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index also showed a worsening corruption score during Akufo-Addo’s tenure, providing Mahama with ammunition to reclaim the presidency.

Ghanaians like Salifu Abdul-Fatawu in Kumasi expressed optimism about Mahama’s return, hoping for job creation and reduced living costs.

However, skeptics question whether Mahama, given his prior record, is equipped to navigate the current crisis.

“John Mahama is the right man to rule this country. We are fed up,” said an NDC supporter in Tamale, reflecting the electorate’s frustration with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The ramifications of Mahama’s comeback extend beyond Ghana. In Liberia, observers are drawing parallels with George Weah, who completed his first term in 2023.

While Weah’s administration faced criticism over economic management and governance, his popularity remains robust among his supporters.

The possibility of a Weah resurgence in 2029 has sparked debate about the durability of political cycles in West Africa.

Mahama joins a growing list of leaders defying political odds to reclaim power, a trend reminiscent of Lula da Silva’s return in Brazil and potentially Donald Trump in the United States.

This resurgence underscores a shift in global politics, where voters, disillusioned with incumbents, revisit leaders they previously rejected.

Mahama’s immediate challenge will be stabilizing Ghana’s economy, addressing the debt crisis, and restoring investor confidence.

Additionally, he must navigate the political scars left by corruption scandals from his earlier tenure. Transparency and effective governance will be crucial to maintaining public trust and avoiding the pitfalls that marked his first administration.

Political analysts describe Mahama as a pragmatist with excellent communication skills.

In a political climate dominated by lofty promises, his practical approach may face challenges in captivating the electorate’s imagination. This tension between pragmatism and populism will likely shape his governance strategy.

Ghana’s political landscape has been dominated by two parties, the NPP and NDC, since the return to multi-party democracy in 1992.

No party has won more than two consecutive terms, underscoring the cyclical nature of power transitions.

Mahama’s return reinforces this pattern, but it also raises questions about the long-term stability and adaptability of Ghana’s democracy.

While Mahama’s win has been celebrated as a victory for democracy, it highlights the persistent challenges facing African democracies: economic mismanagement, corruption, and voter disillusionment.

Addressing these systemic issues will require more than rhetoric; it will demand structural reforms and accountable leadership.

As Mahama prepares to take office, he faces immense pressure to deliver tangible results.

His administration will be closely watched, not just by Ghanaians but by a global audience seeking evidence of Africa’s democratic resilience.

His success or failure could set the tone for future political comebacks across the continent.

Mahama’s second act is an opportunity to redefine his legacy. Will he be remembered as a leader who capitalized on a moment of crisis to restore Ghana’s fortunes, or as a figure whose comeback underscored the cyclical nature of discontent in Ghanaian politics? The answer lies in the months and years ahead.

Ghana’s elections often serve as a bellwether for West Africa’s political trends.

As countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone grapple with similar economic and governance challenges, Mahama’s return offers a template for opposition leaders seeking to stage comebacks in their own nations.

Ultimately, Mahama’s return to power reflects both the resilience and vulnerabilities of Ghana’s democracy.

In a region marked by political instability, his victory is a testament to the enduring appeal of the ballot box—offering a reminder that, in politics, history has a way of repeating itself.