His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s President-elect, has unveiled the first set of appointments to his incoming administration, demonstrating his commitment to assembling a seasoned and capable team to drive his government’s agenda. The appointments, announced on Monday, January 6, 2025, are effective from Tuesday, January 7, 2025, and focus on governance, security, legal affairs, and economic development.
Appointments to the Office of the President
The newly appointed officials are:
- Julius Debrah – Chief of Staff
A trusted confidant of the President-elect, Debrah previously served in the same capacity during Mahama’s first term. His extensive experience in public administration and party leadership positions him as a key figure in coordinating government operations. - Dr. Callistus Mahama – Executive Secretary to the President
Known for his expertise in governance and local development, Dr. Mahama will manage the President’s correspondence, schedules, and strategic directives. - Prosper Douglas Bani – Head of Interim Security Taskforce
A former Minister for the Interior, Bani brings extensive security expertise to oversee national security concerns during the early stages of the administration. - Dr. Valerie Sawyerr – Senior Presidential Advisor, Governmental Affairs
As a seasoned governance expert and former Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Sawyerr will play a pivotal role in advising on government operations and ensuring policy alignment. - Augustus Goosie Tannoh – Presidential Advisor Responsible for 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development
Tannoh will lead efforts to build a 24-hour economy, fostering round-the-clock productivity, and expanding Ghana’s export potential. - Marietta Agyeiwaa Brew – Legal Counsel to the President
The former Attorney General will provide legal advice to the President and the Office of the President, ensuring adherence to constitutional and legal frameworks. - Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu – Acting Spokesperson to the President
A vocal advocate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwakye Ofosu will oversee the President’s communication strategy, ensuring transparency and clarity in public engagements.
Focus Areas of the Appointees
The appointments reflect the President-elect’s focus on key governance pillars:
- Efficient Governance: The inclusion of Julius Debrah and Dr. Callistus Mahama ensures experienced hands at the helm of administrative functions.
- National Security: Prosper Douglas Bani’s leadership of the Interim Security Taskforce is a proactive measure to address security challenges.
- Legal Compliance: Marietta Brew’s appointment underscores the administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
- Economic Revitalization: Goosie Tannoh’s mandate for a 24-hour economy highlights a forward-thinking approach to economic transformation.
What This Means for Ghana
These appointments demonstrate the President-elect’s intent to balance experience with innovation in governance. The team is expected to deliver on key campaign promises, including economic recovery, social inclusion, and institutional reforms. 
With the official transition set to begin on January 7, 2025, the Office of the President is now equipped to hit the ground running, addressing the pressing challenges facing the nation.
Read the statement from the Office of the President-Elect below:
