President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to rise above partisan divisions and embrace a shared national identity, stressing that the country’s future depends on unity, mutual respect and collective nation-building.
In a New Year message to the nation on Thursday, January 1, 2026, President Mahama said Ghana’s development agenda must transcend political affiliation, noting that regardless of how citizens voted in past elections, they remain bound by a common destiny.
“We are one people with a shared destiny, whether you voted for me or not, whether you supported the NDC or not. We are all Ghanaians, and this reset is for all of us,” he stated.
He underscored that Ghana’s identity should not be reduced to party colours, insisting that the nation belongs equally to all its citizens. According to him, the freedoms Ghanaians enjoy today were secured through the sacrifices of the country’s forebears, who shed their blood for independence and national sovereignty.
President Mahama urged citizens to reject politics that thrive on division and hostility, calling instead for a renewed commitment to patriotism and constructive engagement. He said political competition must be anchored in ideas and policy alternatives, not personal attacks or the demonisation of opponents.
“Let’s reject the politics of division and embrace the patriotism of nation-building. Let us disagree without being disagreeable. Let’s compete in the marketplace of ideas without treating our opponents as our enemies,” he said.
He noted that Ghana faces pressing challenges that require collective effort and unity of purpose. He warned that excessive political conflict risks diverting attention and resources from addressing urgent national priorities and fully exploiting the opportunities available to the country.
“The challenges that we face are too urgent, and the opportunities before us are too precious for us to waste our time and energy in needless conflict” he added.
President Mahama concluded by appealing to Ghanaians to channel their energy towards building a stronger and more inclusive nation, stressing that unity remains the most powerful tool for overcoming the country’s challenges and securing a better future for generations to come.
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