Freedom of any nation is insecure unless linked to freedom of all humanity – Mahama

President John Mahama has stressed that national freedom cannot be secure without being connected to the freedom of humanity at large. Speaking at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 24, 2026, Mahama emphasized the importance of recognizing shared humanity and ensuring that freedom, dignity, and rights are protected for all people, regardless of their origins or situations.

He drew inspiration from Ghana's path to independence, echoing the sentiments of Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who once stated that Ghana's freedom would be meaningless without the total liberation of the African continent.

Mahama argued that vulnerable groups, such as inhabitants of small island states facing the threat of rising oceans, and the poor and marginalized, are integral parts of the global human family and should not be overlooked. He emphasized that these groups belong to the common human family and must have their dignity upheld, rights enforced, and voices heard.

Mahama further asserted that Ghana's prosperity and global peace must be built on the principles of inclusion and justice. "Our global peace is unviable unless it is anchored in justice," he stated.

He urged the United Nations General Assembly to champion a world where belonging fosters unity rather than division. Mahama called for the General Assembly to recommit itself to creating a world where belonging unites people, rather than erecting barriers, excluding others, or degrading humanity. "Let this General Assembly recommit itself to a world where belonging is used not to erect walls, but to build bridges, not to exclude, but to unite, not to degrade humanity, but to exalt," he urged.

Mahama also called for honesty and courage in addressing global challenges, echoing the Ghanaian national anthem's call for fearless honesty in statements and actions.