Bawumia reflects on political journey at National Maulid: 'No position is permanent'

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has used Ghana's 2026 National Maulid celebrations to offer a philosophical reflection on his dramatic political fall, telling Ghanaians that power and position are temporary blessings granted and withdrawn by divine will.

Speaking at the Islamic observance held at Fadama and organised by National Chief Imam Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, Dr. Bawumia framed his political trajectory—from running mate, to Vice President, to former Vice President—as evidence of Allah's sovereignty. He drew a striking parallel with President John Dramani Mahama, who has similarly occupied multiple roles: Vice President, President, former President, and now President again following his 2024 election victory.

A lesson in humility and acceptance

Using Quranic verse 3:26 as his foundation, Dr. Bawumia quoted: "Say, O Allah, Owner of Sovereignty, You give sovereignty to whom You will, and You take sovereignty away from whom You will." He urged Ghanaians to embrace patience and humility, warning that circumstances shift unpredictably. "Today you may be up, tomorrow you may be down. Today you may have, tomorrow you may not," he reflected.

The address represented a notable moment in Ghanaian politics—a former leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) publicly accepting electoral defeat through the lens of religious faith. After the NPP's loss in December 2024, Dr. Bawumia, who had been the party's presidential candidate, faced significant scrutiny over his role in the government's economic management during a period of high inflation and currency depreciation.

The broader significance for Ghana

Dr. Bawumia's remarks at the National Maulid carry deeper meaning for Ghana's political culture. His willingness to reflect publicly on loss and transition demonstrates the kind of graceful acceptance that strengthens democratic institutions. The 2026 National Maulid, which commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad, brought together Muslim scholars, traditional chiefs, regional delegations from West Africa, and a representative of President Mahama—underscoring the event's national importance and Dr. Bawumia's continued prominence in public life.

Beyond politics, Dr. Bawumia's message to Muslim youth emphasized values central to Ghana's stability: peace, unity, humility, and discipline. He also advocated for interfaith harmony, encouraging Muslims to maintain peaceful relations across religious communities—a reminder of the religious tolerance that has historically defined Ghana.

What this means for Ghana's political future

The former Vice President's public reflections suggest a path of graceful transition rather than confrontation. This approach may influence how the NPP and broader Ghanaian politics navigate the next electoral cycle. The party faces internal pressure to rebuild after its 2024 defeat, and messaging around acceptance of electoral outcomes—even painful ones—can help frame the opposition's forward strategy.

Dr. Bawumia's attendance at the National Maulid across three different political statuses also highlights the enduring role of Ghana's Muslim community and Islamic observances in the nation's civic life. Such gatherings provide platforms for political and religious leaders to communicate directly with citizens, bridging institutional and spiritual spheres.

As Ghana moves toward 2028, the conversation around political transitions and the temporary nature of power—articulated here through Islamic teachings—may become increasingly relevant to how both ruling and opposition parties frame their positions and ambitions.