Mahama’s Gesture Towards Yagbonwura At Hogbetsotso Festival Sparks Reactions Online

As at November 7, 2026, Ghanaians have taken to social media to express different opinions following President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to kneel and bow while greeting the Yagbonwura, Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, at the grand durbar of the 2026 Hogbetsotso Festival in Anloga in the Volta Region according to a report by TV3 Ghana.

The President’s gesture, which occurred on Saturday when the Gonja overlord arrived at the festival grounds as the Special Guest of Honour, has generated discussions among social media users, with many focusing on the significance of the traditional greeting and what it represents in Ghanaian society.

A section of the online community has welcomed the President’s action, describing it as an expression of humility and respect for traditional authority. These reactions have highlighted the importance of cultural values, particularly the expectation that respect should be shown to traditional leaders and elderly people regardless of one’s position in society.

Others have viewed the gesture as an important demonstration that occupying the highest political office in the country does not necessarily place an individual above cultural practices and traditional values. The discussion has also drawn attention to the role of traditional institutions in preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage.

However, the President’s action has also attracted criticism from some social media users who have questioned the significance of a sitting President kneeling before a traditional ruler. Their concerns have centred on the constitutional position of the President and whether such a public display could be interpreted as submission to traditional authority.

Some critics have also shifted attention to the government’s economic commitments, arguing that national development priorities and promises made to Ghanaians should remain central to public discussions surrounding the President.

The reactions reflect differing perspectives on the relationship between political leadership, traditional authority and cultural identity in Ghana. While some see Mahama’s gesture as a demonstration of humility and cultural respect, others believe the occasion should prompt discussions about governance and the government’s responsibilities to citizens.

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