Bagbin Reveals How He Used Public Relations Skills to Convince Mahama He Could Become President

According to a report by Citi FM on Friday October 23, 2026, Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has recounted how he relied on his public relations expertise to convince former Minority Leader John Dramani Mahama that he had the qualities and potential to become a future President of Ghana.

According to Bagbin, the encounter took place during their time in Parliament, when both men were serving on the Minority side.

He explained that his experience in public relations helped him recognise and communicate the leadership potential he saw in Mahama, who would later rise to become President of the Republic.

The Speaker’s account highlights an interesting chapter in the political relationship between the two prominent figures, whose careers have been closely associated with Ghana’s parliamentary and national political development.

Bagbin, who has spent several decades in public service and parliamentary politics, is widely regarded as one of the country’s most experienced legislators.

His long political journey has given him opportunities to work with different political leaders and observe the qualities required to occupy the highest office in the country.

In recounting his experience, Bagbin indicated that he put his public relations skills to use in persuading Mahama that he had what it took to become a future president.

The story reflects the role that personal conviction, mentorship and political relationships can play in shaping the ambitions of individuals within a political organisation.

Mahama, who served as Vice President under the late President John Evans Atta Mills, eventually became President in 2012 following Mills’ death.

He subsequently contested the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections before returning to the presidency after winning the 2024 general election.

His political journey from parliamentary leadership to the presidency demonstrates the progression of a career shaped by years of involvement in Ghana’s democratic process.

Bagbin’s recollection also draws attention to the influence political colleagues can have on one another, particularly when they recognise leadership potential before it is fully realised.

His account suggests that conversations and persuasion within Parliament can extend beyond legislative debates to include discussions about leadership, ambition and the future direction of the country.

The Speaker’s remarks offer a glimpse into the interactions that took place among political figures during their earlier years in Parliament, before some of them assumed more prominent national responsibilities.

Bagbin has himself occupied several important positions in Ghana’s political system, including serving as Minority Leader and later as Speaker of Parliament.

His experience places him in a unique position to reflect on the development of political leaders with whom he has worked throughout his career.

The account of how he encouraged Mahama to consider his presidential potential adds another dimension to the relationship between the two politicians and illustrates how political fortunes can evolve over time.

The remarks were shared in connection with discussions highlighting Bagbin’s public relations background and his experiences in Ghanaian politics, drawing attention to the role of communication and persuasion in political leadership.

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