Edward Nasigrie Mahama
Edward Nasigrie Mahama is a medical doctor and politician with a remarkable life journey that spans across healthcare and public service.
17 January 1953
Education
Mahama’s educational foundation was laid at Nalerigu Primary and Middle School from 1953 to 1959. His pursuit of knowledge continued at a Secondary School in Tamale from 1961 to 1965. Subsequently, he ventured to the University of Ghana in Legon, earning his medical degree in 1972.
17 January 1969
Medicine
Returning to Nalerigu in September 1973, Mahama served as a medical doctor before embarking on a transformative journey to Chicago, Illinois, where he became an Obstetrics and Gynecology Physician. During this period, he also held the role of a Clinical Instructor at Northwestern University. In 1990, he assumed the position of lecturer at the University of Ghana Medical School and consultant at Accra’s Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. His expertise was further recognized when he was elected a fellow of the West African College of Surgeons in 1994.
17 January 1996
Political ascent
Mahama’s foray into politics began in 1996 when he contested as the presidential candidate for the People’s National Convention (PNC), securing 3.0% of the vote. Undeterred, he persisted, and in 2000, his candidacy garnered 2.5% of the vote.
17 January 2004
2004 elections
In preparation for the 2004 presidential election, Mahama played a pivotal role in the formation of an alliance known as the Grand Coalition, comprising the PNC, Every Ghanaian Living Everywhere (EGLE), and the Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP). He emerged as the coalition’s presidential candidate, securing 1.9% of the vote.
17 January 2008
2008 elections
Mahama’s political journey within the PNC saw both victories and setbacks. Elected as the PNC candidate for the December 7, 2008, presidential elections, he navigated challenges but continued to contribute to the political landscape.
17 January 2012
Run-up to the 2012 election
Mahama lost the position of presidential candidate to Hassan Ayariga in the run-up to the 2012 general election.
17 January 2016
Return to the presidential seat
Mahama made a triumphant return for the 2016 election. After the 2016 defeat, Ayariga left the PNC to form another party, the All People’s Congress (APC).
17 January 2017
Ambassador-at-Large
On July 10, 2017, Dr Mahama was appointed Ghana's Ambassador-at-Large by President Akufo-Addo.
17 January 2020
Withdrawal from the presidential race
On August 11, 2020 Dr. Edward Nasigre Mahama, announced that he will not be participating in the 2020 presidential election, stating, "I am stepping aside as the presidential candidate of the PNC and will not contest either the party’s presidential primary or the national elections."
