Ghana’s Vice-President, Mahamudu Bawumia, has conceded defeat in the country’s tightly contested presidential election, congratulating opposition leader and former President John Mahama on his victory.
“The people have voted for change,” Bawumia declared, acknowledging the public’s demand for a new direction amid Ghana’s most severe economic crisis in decades. The crisis has led to soaring living costs, widespread youth unemployment, and escalating debt challenges.
Despite the concession, the Electoral Commission (EC) has not yet announced official results, citing disruptions at collation centers caused by partisan clashes. The EC has called for police intervention to ensure the collation process continues without further disturbances.
Mahama’s supporters have already taken to the streets nationwide, celebrating with flag-waving, cheers, and motorbike parades. “I’m so excited for this victory,” said Salifu Abdul-Fatawu from Kumasi, expressing hopes for job creation and relief from high food and fuel prices under Mahama’s leadership.
Even some supporters of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) expressed discontent with the outgoing administration. “The system was so bad in an election year,” remarked a supporter identified as Nana.
Bawumia’s decision to concede, based on internal party tallies showing Mahama’s decisive lead, aimed to prevent further tension and preserve national peace. “Ghana’s peace is paramount,” he emphasized.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) also declared victory, citing internal results giving Mahama 56% of the vote against Bawumia’s 41%. Mahama confirmed receiving Bawumia’s congratulatory call, describing the victory as “emphatic.”
This marks a dramatic comeback for Mahama, 65, who previously served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017 before losing to Nana Akufo-Addo in 2017 and again in 2020. With Akufo-Addo stepping down after two constitutional terms, Mahama’s return continues Ghana’s tradition of power alternating between the NDC and NPP.
Since transitioning to multi-party democracy in 1992, no party in Ghana has won more than two consecutive terms, highlighting the electorate’s preference for change. Mahama’s renewed leadership now faces the daunting task of addressing Ghana’s pressing economic challenges.
During his campaign, Mahama pledged to transform Ghana into a “24-hour economy,” a promise that resonated with voters like Gajia One in Tamale. “We handed over to them [NPP], but they have failed. John Mahama is the right man to rule this country,” she said.
The US Embassy in Accra commended Ghana for conducting a “successful election,” reaffirming the nation’s standing as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
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