Ghana’s Poll: Bawumia concedes defeat, congratulates John Mahama on victory

Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of Ghana’s ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has conceded defeat in the 2024 elections, congratulating former President John Dramani Mahama on his victory.

In a concession speech delivered on Sunday, Mr Bawumia acknowledged that internal data from his party indicates the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has secured victory in both the presidential and parliamentary polls.

“Let me say that the data from our own internal collation of the election results indicate that former President John Dramani Mahama has won the presidential election decisively,” Bawumia said.

“The NDC has also won the parliamentary election. Even though we await the final collation of a number of seats, I believe ultimately these will not change the outcome.

“I am making this concession speech before the official announcement by the electoral commission to avoid further tension and preserve the peace of our country.

“It is important that the world investor community continues to believe in the peaceful and democratic character of Ghana.”

Mr Bawumia added that he accepts the decision of Ghanaians “with all humility.”

Mahama, who lost his re-election bid to Nana Akufo-Addo in 2016, is expected to take office as president in January 2025.