While addressing Parliament, President Mahama turned his attention to Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and said: "Afenyo, when we all leave politics, I and Nitiwul will go to the North, you will go to Winneba." He followed the remark with a reassuring addition: "Don't worry, you are my friend."
The statement drew immediate laughter from members of Parliament and created a brief but notable pause in the formality of the occasion.
By placing himself alongside Dominic Nitiwul in the remark, the President grounded the statement in shared identity, while directing a friendly nudge at the Minority Leader about his own roots in Winneba.
The moment quickly circulated on social media, prompting widespread reaction from Ghanaians. Public opinion was largely positive, with many describing the President as approachable and genuinely personable.
Several observers praised his ability to connect with people beyond partisan lines, viewing the exchange as a reflection of his leadership character.
However, not all reactions were without reservation. A section of the public raised questions about the ethnic undertones of referencing individuals by their regional origins, even in a jovial context, noting that such remarks carry different weight depending on who delivers them and in what direction.
The broader reaction nonetheless leaned toward appreciation, with many Ghanaians expressing that the moment humanised the presidency and demonstrated that political opponents can maintain genuine respect for one another beyond partisan competition.