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Claim: Multiple social media users are claiming that newly-elected President John Dramani Mahama delivered his inaugural speech at Independence Square on Jan. 7, 2025 extempore.
Verdict: False. DUBAWA’s search showed that newly elected President John Mahama was reading his inaugural speech from a teleprompter.
Full Text
President John Dramani Mahama’s smooth and confident delivery during his swearing-in ceremony sparked conversations online.
While some social media users assumed he spoke extempore, others speculated that he was using a teleprompter.
Reactions on X platforms were mixed. Some applauded Mahama for his eloquence; others questioned whether his reliance on a teleprompter undermined the authenticity of his speech.
While the screengrab of the livestream of John Mahama’s inauguration provides evidence of the teleprompters’ placement, it is important to establish whether they were actively in use. Typically, teleprompters are employed during formal speeches to help speakers deliver their addresses smoothly. Sources at the event reported that the president’s delivery was consistent with the use of prepared remarks, further supporting the likelihood of teleprompter usage.
Verification
Footages from the ceremony clearly show President Mahama maintaining a steady gaze at specific positions, which aligns with teleprompter screens placed strategically near his podium. Watch from 18:19.
His speech delivery exhibited hallmarks of teleprompter usage: smooth pacing, consistent tone, and a lack of paper scripts.
Additionally, this is not an isolated instance. Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have a history of using teleprompters for key speeches and events. Mahama has employed this technology in past campaigns and public addresses to deliver structured and articulate messages.
Conclusion
Based on the videographic evidence and observations from the event, it is accurate to state that teleprompters were present and used during President John Dramani Mahama’s inaugural speech. This aligns with standard practice for speeches of such national importance.
