Ghana’s political landscape witnessed a remarkable moment of democratic transition as Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, voluntarily conceded defeat to former President John Mahama on Sunday.
In an unprecedented move aimed at preserving national peace, Bawumia delivered a concession speech that effectively concluded the 2024 presidential election before the official announcement by the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
“Let me say that the data from our own internal collation of the election results indicate that former President John Dramani Mahama has won the presidential election decisively,” Bawumia stated.
The nationwide election, conducted on Saturday, had been marked by building tensions and inflammatory comments from party officials.
Bawumia’s speech strategically diffused potential political confrontations.
“I am making this concession speech before the official announcement by the Electoral Commission to avoid further tension and preserve the peace of our country,” he emphasized.
Beyond acknowledging Mahama’s victory, Bawumia highlighted the broader implications for Ghana’s international reputation.
“It is important that the world investor community continues to believe in the peaceful and democratic character of Ghana,” he added. “The people have voted for change at this time, and we respect that decision with all humility.”
Mahama’s comeback is particularly significant, having previously lost elections in 2016 and 2020.
Alongside his victory, Ghana stands on the cusp of another historic milestone with Jane Opoku-Agyemang, a 73-year-old former Minister of Education, potentially becoming the country’s first female vice-president.
While the Electoral Commission has yet to officially announce final results, Bawumia’s comprehensive concession effectively renders the formal pronouncement a mere procedural formality.
“The NDC has also won the parliamentary election. Even though we await final collation of a number of seats, I believe ultimately these will not change the outcome,” he said.
