Ghana’s Vice President concedes defeat in historic move ahead of final election results
Ghana’s Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who was also the leading opposition candidate in the just-ended presidential election, has conceded defeat ahead of the official declaration of results.
The Electoral Commission of Ghana is finalising the outcome of the December 7 vote and is expected to announce the final results between December 8 and 9.
However, in a move described as unprecedented in Ghana’s history, Dr. Bawumia congratulated his opponent, former President John Mahama, even before the final announcement by the Commission.
“I have just called His Excellency John Dramani Mahama to congratulate him as president-elect of the Republic of Ghana,” Bawumia said in a televised address. “I said during the signing of the peace pact that I was sure of two things: Ghana will win, and peace will reign. The people of Ghana have spoken; they have voted for change at this time, and we respect that decision with all humility.”
This marks the first time in Ghana’s history that a presidential candidate has conceded before an official declaration. Traditionally, candidates wait until the Electoral Commission announces the final certified results.
According to Dr Bawumia, his decision to concede reflects his commitment to protecting the country’s peace and democracy.
“I am making this concession speech before the official declaration of the Electoral Commission to avoid further tension and preserve the peace of the country. 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. Ghana is more important than our individual political ambitions, and we must always put Ghana first,” he added.
Provisional results show John Mahama leading with 56.73% of the votes, representing 1,451,839 votes. Dr. Bawumia trails with 42.21%, which amounts to 1,080,248 votes. Under Ghana’s electoral system, a candidate must secure over 50% of the total votes cast to be declared the winner.
The Electoral Commission is expected to confirm these provisional results in its final declaration.
