Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has explained the absence of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo from the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), stating that it is “for a good reason.”
The clarification came during proceedings in Parliament on Friday, January 27, 2026, when Speaker Bagbin read a communique addressing the former president’s non-attendance at the event.
The SONA, delivered by President John Dramani Mahama in accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, is a key annual address where the president outlines the state of the nation and government priorities to Parliament.
Ex-President Akufo-Addo, who handed over power following the December 2024 elections that saw John Mahama return to office, was not present at the ceremony.
In his remarks, Speaker Bagbin read the communique, noting: “Unfortunately for good reason, he’s not able to attend this occasion. He however extends his best wishes to you and His Excellency the President.”