“I Never Thought Mahama Would Be President Again” – Annor-Dompreh Admits After Shock Election Outcome
In a candid reflection on Ghana’s political landscape, the outgoing Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has admitted that he never imagined former President John Dramani Mahama would return to power after his 2016 defeat.
His remarks come in the wake of the 2025 elections, which saw Mahama elected once again as President of the Republic of Ghana an outcome that surprised many political watchers, especially those within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking during an interview, Annoh-Dompreh acknowledged that although the NPP had initially believed Mahama’s political career had peaked, the former president’s comeback demonstrates how quickly public sentiment and electoral dynamics can shift.
“We Were Convinced the Public Wanted a New Direction”
The Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP explained that within NPP circles, the belief was strong that the electorate had moved on and would not give Mahama another shot at the presidency.
However, the results, he said, reveal that the Ghanaian voter is becoming more sophisticated and willing to revisit past leadership if they feel it offers renewed hope.
He described Mahama’s return as a “powerful reminder that no politician should ever be written off completely.”
A Changed Political Climate
According to Annoh-Dompreh, several factors played into Mahama’s unexpected resurgence:
- Economic frustrations under the current administration, including rising cost of living and youth unemployment.
- Mahama’s refined campaign strategy, which centred heavily on unity, national reset, and restoring economic stability.
- A more energized NDC base, compared to previous election cycles
These elements, he admitted, may have contributed to a shift in national mood that the NPP underestimated.
Call for Deep Reflection Within the NPP
Annoh-Dompreh urged his party to treat this election outcome as a wake-up call, stressing that internal reform and a renewed connection with grassroots supporters are essential if the NPP hopes to win future elections.
“We must learn, reorganize, and reconnect. Ghanaian voters are watching everything, and they are demanding results, not excuses,” he said.
Mahama’s Return Marks a New Chapter
Mahama’s comeback marks the first time in Ghana’s Fourth Republic that a former president has returned after a decisive defeat. His new term arrives at a moment of heightened economic and social pressure, with expectations running high among citizens hoping for quick reforms.
For many observers, Annoh-Dompreh’s admission reflects a broader realization within the political class: Ghana’s democracy is becoming more dynamic, unpredictable, and shaped by voters who demand accountability over loyalty.