Public Perceptions of John Mahama’s 2025 Inaugural Dress Fashion Choice as a Symbol of Ghanaian Identity and Unity

Abstract The study investigated how public perceptions of the 2025 inaugural dress fashion choice of President John Dramani Mahama contributed to fostering national identity and cohesion in Ghana. It utilised a descriptive survey design with a sample of 1,558 Ghanaians aged 18 and older, dispersed throughout all 16 regions of Ghana. Using a questionnaire, data were gathered with an online survey conducted on a secure platform, Google Forms, ensuring accessibility and representation of many demographic groups, including urban, peri-urban, and rural respondents with internet connectivity. Simple descriptive statistics (mean, mode, and median) was utilised as the data analysis tool. The study revealed that President John Dramani Mahama’s 2025 inauguration dress fashion functioned as a significant and potent cultural symbol and contributed positively towards Ghanaian national identity and cohesion. Moreover, it revealed a strong consensus that his outfit showcased ethnic diversity and highlighted the public's desire for political leaders to promote Ghana's multiculturalism through dress. It is recommended that Ghana consider making what a president and other political officeholders wear for national, diplomatic, and other public engagements statutory to reinforce national identity and cohesion in multiethnic Ghana.