The return of Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang to Ghana after receiving medical treatment abroad was met with a warm welcome from President John Mahama and the nation. Her hospitalization abroad, while concerning, highlighted the need for Ghana to strengthen its domestic healthcare infrastructure to handle similar emergencies in the future. President Mahama acknowledged the existing University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), but emphasized its current limitations in addressing complex medical cases like the Vice President’s, calling for its further development to meet the vision of its original conception. He underscored the importance of this development as a means to prevent future instances requiring medical evacuations abroad.
The President openly expressed his relief at the Vice President’s return, highlighting the significant impact of her absence both personally and on the functioning of the government. He humorously mentioned the political pressures he faced, including threats of impeachment for traveling while she was away, underscoring her vital role in governmental operations. The Vice President’s absence was felt acutely during important events such as the 120-day social contract program, although the President commended his colleagues for stepping up and continuing the work they had committed to deliver to the Ghanaian people. He emphasized that her return was timely, allowing her to rejoin the ongoing national efforts.
President Mahama extended his gratitude to the staff of the Ghana High Commission in the UK for their dedicated care and support of the Vice President during her treatment in London. He personally witnessed their attentiveness and commended their courteous assistance. Acknowledging the medical advice received, he urged the Vice President to prioritize rest and recovery upon her return, promising a gradual reintegration into her official duties. The overall tone was one of relief and celebration for her improved health and safe return.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang expressed her deep gratitude for the successful outcome of her treatment. She attributed her recovery to divine mercy and expressed her appreciation for the medical staff who provided her care, highlighting their accurate diagnosis and recommendations. Looking forward, she emphasized the collective responsibility to continue working for the betterment of Ghana, confident in their ability to achieve more with shared determination. She acknowledged the challenges faced during her illness but expressed optimism for the future.
The Vice President specifically thanked President Mahama for his swift and decisive action in facilitating her medical treatment abroad. She recounted the President’s unexpected visit and his immediate efforts to organize the necessary arrangements. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude for the prayers and well-wishes she received from the public, acknowledging the tremendous support during a difficult time. These expressions of gratitude extended beyond official channels to encompass the broader community and the power of collective support.
In a particularly poignant moment, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang singled out President Mahama’s brother, Ibrahim Mahama, for his exceptional support. She praised his unwavering commitment to ensuring she received the best possible care, going above and beyond to facilitate her treatment and provide personal comfort. His visits to the hospital and presence at her bedside were especially meaningful, providing a source of strength and solace during her illness. This personal acknowledgment underscored the importance of familial support during challenging times and the deep appreciation felt by the Vice President for his unwavering commitment to her well-being.
