ACCRA, Ghana (BG) – Ghana’s ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat on Sunday to opposition candidate and former President John Dramani Mahama in the tightly contested presidential election.

“The people of Ghana have spoken, the people have voted for change at this time and we respect it with all humility,” Bawumia said during a press conference on Sunday. “I have just called His Excellency John Mahama to congratulate him as president-elect,” he added.

The election, held on Saturday, December 7, saw high voter turnout as citizens reaffirmed their faith in Ghana’s democratic process.

Mahama, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), celebrated the victory and extended his gratitude to voters, calling it an “emphatic victory.”

Polling stations were marked by calm and orderly conduct, reflecting the nation’s political maturity.

The peaceful transfer of power cements Ghana’s position as a beacon of democracy in West Africa. The concession by the ruling party demonstrates the nation’s respect for the electoral process and commitment to stability.

As Ghana readies itself for a smooth democratic transition, its example inspires nations worldwide, emphasizing the importance of transparency, mutual respect, and adherence to democratic ideals.

President-elect, Mahama, is set to take office on January 7, 2025. This date marks the official start of his new term and the continuation of Ghana’s democratic tradition.

Mahama, 65, who served as president from 2012 to 2017, has promised to “reset” the country. He has criticized the ruling government’s handling of the economy and vowed to address the economic crisis while improving living standards.

He served as Vice President of Ghana from January 2009 to July 2012, and took office as president on July 24 2012, following the death of his predecessor, John Evans Fiifi Attah Mills.

The current president, Nana Akufo-Addo, has led the country since January 7, 2017, and was re-elected for a second term in 2020.

His tenure has been marked by efforts to promote economic growth and stability, although his administration faced challenges such as inflation and financial crises.