Bawumia Assumes Presidential Duties in Akufo-Addo’s Absence, Confirms Presidency

The Jubilee House, through President Akufo-Addo’s official Facebook handle, has officially declared that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is now serving as the acting President. This announcement coincided with President Akufo-Addo’s scheduled participation in the Munich Security Conference in Germany, followed by the 37th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The post outlined the President’s travel itinerary, stating that he would be away until February 18, 2024. In adherence to Article 60(8) of the Constitution, Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia would assume the presidential responsibilities during this period.

The 37th AU Summit, themed “Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa,” is scheduled for February 17-18, 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. President Akufo-Addo is expected to play a significant role, including hosting a breakfast meeting on Education and discussing the AU Financial Institutions.

Before heading to Ethiopia, President Akufo-Addo will be present at the Munich Security Conference in Germany. The MSC is renowned for its role as a global platform for discussions on security policy, with the 2024 edition aiming to strengthen the rules-based international order and counter revisionist tendencies. The conference will include debates, side events, and commemorate its 60th anniversary.

Accompanying President Akufo-Addo on his travels are the First Lady, Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo, Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, MP, and officials from both the Presidency and the Foreign Ministry.