Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has made a historic return to power, defeating Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Saturday’s presidential election. Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, reportedly secured 56% of the vote against Bawumia’s 41%, though official Electoral Commission results were still awaited as of Sunday night.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, congratulated Mahama via telephone, expressing optimism about his leadership’s impact on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Tinubu lauded Mahama’s victory as a testament to Ghanaian trust in his governance, stating, “His second tenure will advance our shared vision of peace and economic integration in the region.”
Although delays in official results were caused by disruptions at collation centers, Bawumia conceded defeat, acknowledging internal figures confirming Mahama’s decisive win. “The people have voted for change,” Bawumia said.
The election took place against the backdrop of Ghana’s worst economic crisis in decades, marked by surging costs, high unemployment, and debt challenges. Ghanaians hope Mahama’s return will stabilize the economy and improve living standards.
Celebrations erupted among Mahama’s supporters across the nation, though some incidents of violence were reported. In Nyankpala, two lives were lost during a dispute, while the Electoral Commission’s office in Damongo was vandalized by alleged NDC supporters frustrated by result delays.
Outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo exits after completing two terms, paving the way for Mahama, who previously led the nation from 2012 to 2017. Mahama’s agenda focuses on tackling Ghana’s pressing economic issues.
The president-elect will be inaugurated on January 7, 2025, ushering in a new chapter in Ghana’s political history. Tinubu, along with ECOWAS President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray and other regional leaders, commended the peaceful conduct of the elections. Tinubu hailed the process as “a shining example of democracy as a pillar of political stability, economic progress, and social justice in Africa.”
