ACCRA, Ghana — Ghana’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia conceded defeat on Sunday, December 8, 2024, after a closely contested presidential election, paving the way for a historic political comeback by opposition leader and former President John Mahama.
Bawumia, addressing the nation, acknowledged that internally collated results indicated Mahama had decisively won the presidency, even before the official announcement by the Electoral Commission.
“I have since called H.E John Dramani Mahama to congratulate him as President-elect of the Republic of Ghana,” Bawumia said.
“The people have voted for change at this time, and we respect that decision with all humility.”
Bawumia also confirmed that Mahama’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) had secured victory in the parliamentary election.
“I concede to avoid further tension and preserve the peace of our country,” he added.
A ‘Defining Moment’ for Ghana
Mahama, 66, hailed the election as a pivotal moment for the West African nation.
Speaking after Bawumia’s concession, he described his victory as an opportunity to “reset” Ghana’s trajectory and promised a government that prioritises “good governance and accountability.”
“This is a defining moment for Ghana,” Mahama said, noting that he had received a “congratulatory call” from Bawumia.
Economic and Environmental Concerns
The election unfolded against the backdrop of Ghana’s worst economic crisis in decades.
High inflation, soaring youth unemployment, and a dramatic rise in the cost of living dominated campaign discussions.
Bawumia, 61, a UK-trained economist, came under intense scrutiny for his role as chair of Ghana’s economic management team.
Critics accused him of failing to address the country’s economic struggles, a point Mahama seized on during the campaign trail.
Adding to these challenges is the environmental crisis stemming from illegal small-scale gold mining, known locally as galamsey.
The practice has devastated Ghana’s landscape, leaving vast areas pockmarked with mining pits and polluting major rivers.
Public frustration over the government’s inability to tackle the issue was a significant factor in the election.
Mahama’s Return to Power
Mahama, who previously served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017, staged a remarkable comeback after losing the presidency to incumbent Nana Akufo-Addo in 2016.
His victory marks a significant shift in Ghana’s political landscape, which has been characterised by a longstanding rivalry between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the NDC.
Opinion polls had predicted Mahama’s success, buoyed by widespread dissatisfaction with the NPP government.
His campaign focused on restoring trust in governance and addressing the economic challenges facing ordinary Ghanaians.
The Road Ahead
As Ghana prepares for a peaceful transfer of power, the focus will shift to Mahama’s ability to deliver on his promises.
Key priorities for the President-elect include stabilising the economy, creating job opportunities, and addressing the environmental damage caused by illegal mining.
Bawumia’s graceful concession and Mahama’s emphasis on unity signal a commitment to preserving Ghana’s democratic tradition.
With Mahama’s return, many Ghanaians are hopeful that this “defining moment” will lead to a renewed era of accountability and progress for the nation.
