Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has achieved a historic victory in the nation’s presidential election, reclaiming the presidency after his opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat. This marks a significant turning point in Ghana’s political history, as Mahama becomes the first leader in the Fourth Republic to return to office after being voted out.
In a news conference on Sunday, Bawumia acknowledged the loss, stating, “The people of Ghana have spoken. They have voted for change, and we humbly respect their decision.” His concession ends the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) eight-year tenure under President Nana Akufo-Addo, a period overshadowed by economic turmoil, including record-high inflation, a debt default, and a $3 billion International Monetary Fund bailout.
Mahama, the candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), secured 56.3% of the vote, according to internal party tallies, decisively defeating Bawumia, who garnered 41.3%. The NDC also won the parliamentary majority, as indicated by the NPP’s internal results.
Mahama confirmed the victory on his social media account, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support and revealing that Bawumia had personally called to congratulate him on his “emphatic victory.”
Across the capital city of Accra, jubilant supporters gathered outside the NDC campaign headquarters, celebrating with blaring horns, chants, and cheers. The victory resonates strongly with Ghanaians, who have expressed dissatisfaction with the outgoing administration’s handling of economic challenges and rising corruption.
During his campaign, Mahama pledged to reset the nation’s priorities and restore economic stability. Key among his promises was the creation of a specialized anti-corruption office to scrutinize all government procurement above a $5 million threshold, a move aimed at addressing one of the nation’s major governance challenges.
Mahama also vowed to focus on youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and restoring trust in public institutions. However, his support for Ghana’s controversial anti-LGBTQ bill, which passed parliament in February but awaits presidential approval, has drawn criticism from international rights groups.
This election represents a pivotal moment for Ghana, a nation renowned for its democratic stability. Since the return to multi-party politics in 1992, the NPP and NDC have alternated power, with neither party dominating the political landscape for more than two terms at a stretch.
Mahama’s victory underscores the people’s desire for change, coming after two terms of governance marked by economic hardship and growing public discontent. His leadership will be closely watched as he seeks to deliver on his promises and navigate a challenging global economic environment.
Official results from Ghana’s electoral commission are expected by Tuesday, but Mahama’s decisive lead and Bawumia’s concession have already sealed his place as Ghana’s next president. His return to power sets the stage for a new chapter in the country’s political and economic journey.
