The 7 most powerful men in Ghana today
The balance of power in Ghana has shifted since the results of the December election was released.
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President John Mahama's defeat in the election means he has lost his place as the most powerful man in Ghana. That slot has now been filled by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Here are the nine most powerful men in the country today.
READ ALSO: I've done my best - Mahama says as he bows out
1. Nana Akufo-Addo
The constitution gives the president massive powers to appoint ministers, directors of state companies, judges. He also presides over the government's budget and can award contracts worth billions. Akufo-Addo's victory in the December 7 presidential election makes him the most powerful man in Ghana today.
2. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
The Ashanti king has always been one of the most powerful and influential personalities in Ghana. He commands nationwide, bi-partisan respect, and has the ears of the president at all times. His opinions carry a lot of weight.
3. John Agyekum Kufuor
The former president's influence has shot up since his party won the 2016 election. He is widely respected nationally, commands massive influence within the NPP and has the ear of the president at all times.
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4. Mahamudu Bawumia
Akufo-Addo sees Bawumia as not just a running-mate, but a true partner in the development of Ghana. As such, Bawumia will head the government's economic team and will likely be one of the most powerful vice-presidents in Ghana's history.
5. Ken Ofori Atta
Ken Ofori Atta was instrumental in Akufo-Addo's victory. He was in charge of helping raise money for the crucial campaign.
He has Akufo-Addo's deep trust, and is set to be rewarded with a top government post, possibly finance minister.
Ofori Atta will be one of the most influential figures in Akufo-Addo's government.
6. Jerry Rawlings
The former president remains very powerful and influential. Although his party lost the election, he retains moral authority among supporters of the party. He also commands bi-partisan respect.
7. John Mahama
READ ALSO: Rawlings brutally snubs Okoe Vanderpuye at SONA (video)
The result of the 2016 election represented a stunning repudiation of Mahama's four-year presidency. However, as former president he will retain considerable power and influence in the country. He, especially, has the financial resources to mount a comeback in 2020.
What do you make of this? Share your views with us in the comments section.
Click here for a list of the 6 most powerful women in Ghana today.
Source: YEN.com.gh
