Adinkra, Kente Symbolisms, Sartorial Semiotics and Political Leadership Communication of John Dramani Mahama's 2025 Presidential Inauguration Fashion

Abstract This study examines President John Dramani Mahama’s incorporation of Adinkra symbols and kente patterns in his inaugural dress and its synergy with his leadership ideologies and inaugural speech. It also analyses the ideological and philosophical statements linked to the Adinkra and Kente symbols present in his sartorial choices on January 7, 2025. This study fills a research gap using cultural semiotics and discourse analysis. The study demonstrates that President Mahama’s sartorial choice constituted a deliberate narrative. He selected Adinkra symbols such as Nyame Dua (divine authority) and Gye Nyame (divine supremacy) for spiritually anchored leadership; Dwennimmen (strength with humility) reflected accountable leadership; Sankofa (learn from the past) materialised his "reset" agenda, while Ɛmmerepa da w’anim Kente (better days ahead) visualised national unity and future prosperity, resonating with his inaugural speech. The study concludes that Adinkra and Kente symbols are active forms of political language, embodying leadership ideologies essential for Ghanaian national identity and dress culture. Building on this, President Mahama should elevate this dress culture to national policy by having his administration, through parliament, pass legislation for a national dress code for Ghanaian public officers.