With less than a quarter of the votes announced in Saturday’s presidential candidate in Ghana, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has conceded defeat to his National Democratic Congress (NDC) opponent, former President John Mahama.
In a public address broadcast from Bawumia’s official residence hours after results started trickling in, the outgoing Vice President acknowledged the victory of his opponent and expressed his gratitude to Ghanaians for the opportunity to serve as a the nation’s No. 2 citizen and presidential candidate.
Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the provisional results from the party’s internal collation, which indicated a victory for NDC and Mahama.
Bawumia confirmed that he had called Mahama to congratulate him as Ghana’s President-elect.
“I said during the signing of the peace pact that I was sure of two things: Ghana will win, and peace will reign”, the Vice President remarked.
“The people of Ghana have spoken. The people have voted for change at this time, and we respect that decision with all humility”, he said.
Highlighting the importance of preserving Ghana’s peace and democratic character, Bawumia stated that his decision to concede ahead of the official announcement was aimed at reducing tension and upholding the country’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
“It is important that the world investor community continues to believe in the peaceful and democratic character of Ghana. These are our most important assets”, he said, reiterating his commitment to the nation over personal political ambitions.
Bawumia expressed pride in his campaign and gratitude to the NPP for their support, while gracefully acknowledging the electoral outcome as part of the democratic process. “We put our best foot forward in the contest, explaining our policies and programs. However, it is sometimes the case that the voter would have other ideas”, he observed.
The Vice President pledged the NPP’s support for a seamless transition to the new government and assured Ghanaians that the party would adopt a constructive approach as the opposition. “We will not be a disruptive opposition, even though we will subject government actions and policies to strict scrutiny in the interest of our beloved nation”, Bawumia stated.
Speaking directly to NPP supporters, Bawumia acknowledged the disappointment they might feel but encouraged them to remain hopeful, adding: “I assure you that we will regroup and come back even stronger. We may have lost the battle, but not the war”.
He extended heartfelt gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, his family, campaign team, running mate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and supporters across the country for their contributions and encouragement throughout his political journey.
Bawumia also praised Ghana’s traditional rulers, religious leaders, security services, and the media for their roles in ensuring a peaceful election process.
Bawumia underscored the resilience of Ghana’s democracy and his unwavering faith in the nation’s future.
He declared: “Ghana has won”!
Chidiebere Onuorha
8 December 2024 at 4:14 pm
Now, this is most commendable. This is the dream of most Africans for Africa – peaceful elections where the losers are humble and honest enough to accept defeat in the interest of their country’s peace and development.
We need more men like Ghana’s Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia. Usually, in these parts, people in such positions consider it their right to ascend to their country’s highest political office. And to think that he conceded defeat with less than a quarter of the official results being announced, and very likely without any external or internal pressures, speaks to the man’s integrity. For him, it’s all about the people and the country, and not about his personal ambitions. Now, that’s a real man!
Congratulations Ghana! This is a victory for all Ghanaians.