Ghana’s former President John Dramani Mahama has won the country’s presidential election after his main opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat.
“The people of Ghana have spoken, the people have voted for change at this time and we respect it with all humility,” Bawumia said in a news conference on Sunday.
The defeat in Saturday’s election ends two terms in power for the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) under President Nana Akufo-Addo, marked by Ghana’s worst economic crisis in years, involving high inflation and a debt default.
In a press conference held at his residence, Bawumia stated that the outcome was in the best interest of Ghana.
He also confirmed that he had called Mahama to offer his congratulations.
“From our internal tally, it is clear that former President John Dramani Mahama has decisively won the election,” Bawumia remarked.
“Additionally, the NDC has also secured victory in the parliamentary elections, and while some seats are still being finalized, I believe the results will not alter the overall outcome.”
Bawumia emphasized that his decision to concede before the official announcement by the Electoral Commission was meant to avoid further tension and maintain peace in the country.
He also highlighted the importance of preserving Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful and democratic nation in the eyes of the international community.
“I accept the will of the Ghanaian people with humility,” Bawumia concluded.
(Al Jazeera)
