Ghana’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has been awarded the nation’s highest civilian honour, weeks after suffering a heavy defeat in the presidential election.
Dr Bawumia received the Order of the Star of Ghana – Officer Award at a ceremony in Accra on Monday, alongside more than 50 other recipients.
The award was presented by outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo, under whom Dr Bawumia served for eight years as vice president.
The ceremony at the Accra International Conference Centre saw several senior government officials recognised, including Communications Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful and Chief of Staff Frema Opare.
Among the distinguished recipients were prominent figures from various sectors, including legendary musicians Charles Kwadwo Fosu, known as Daddy Lumba, and Gyedu Blay Ambolley for their contributions to creative arts.
The ceremony also recognised several public servants, including Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame, Education Minister Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Elsie Addo Awadzi.
Nearly half of the recipients were serving government appointees, raising concerns about self-serving awards before leaving office.
Dr Bawumia, an economist by training, was credited for his role in Ghana’s digital transformation initiatives during his tenure. He first entered politics in 2008 as running mate to Mr Akufo-Addo, staying on through two failed election bids before they won power in 2016.
However, his own presidential ambitions were dealt a significant blow earlier this month when he secured just 38.2% of the vote – the ruling New Patriotic Party’s worst-ever election result. He lost to former President John Mahama, who will take office on 6 January.
Despite the electoral setback, Dr Bawumia has indicated he may contest again in 2028. Political analysts suggest the prestigious award could help rebuild his profile after December’s disappointing showing at the polls.
The Order of the Star of Ghana is the country’s highest civilian honour, recognising exceptional public service. President Akufo-Addo’s government will leave office next month after completing two terms.
The timing of the honours, coming just weeks after Dr Bawumia’s electoral defeat and days before the government leaves office, has prompted questions about the political nature of the awards.
Critics have questioned the merit-based credibility of the honours, as the outgoing administration appeared to reward its own members, while the party’s defeat has been blamed on poor economy and arrogance of power.
