Lyn Frans
The presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has gracefully conceded defeat in the 2024 general elections.
In a public address streamed from his residence just hours after the results began to come in, he recognized his opponent’s victory and thanked the people of Ghana for the chance to serve as both vice president and presidential candidate.
WATCH:
Dr. Bawumia has acknowledged the provisional results from his party’s internal collation, which show a victory for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its candidate, former President John Dramani Mahama. He confirmed that he had reached out to Mr. Mahama to congratulate him as Ghana’s President-elect.
During his remarks, Dr. Bawumia noted, “I said during the signing of the peace pact that I was sure of two things: Ghana will win, and peace will reign.” He emphasized, “The people of Ghana have spoken. They have voted for change at this time, and we respect that decision with all humility.”
Stressing the importance of maintaining peace and democratic integrity in Ghana, Dr. Bawumia explained that his decision to concede before the official announcement was intended to ease tensions and uphold the country’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. “It is crucial for the global investor community to continue believing in Ghana’s peaceful and democratic nature. These are our most valuable assets,” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to the nation over personal political ambitions.
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Dr. Bawumia expressed pride in his campaign efforts and gratitude to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for their support, acknowledging the electoral outcome as part of the democratic process. “We put our best foot forward in the contest, presenting our policies and programs. However, voters sometimes have different ideas,” he observed.
The Vice President committed to supporting a smooth transition to the new government and assured Ghanaians that the NPP would take a constructive approach as the opposition. “We will not be a disruptive opposition, but we will rigorously scrutinize government actions and policies in the interest of our beloved nation,” he declared.
Addressing NPP supporters directly, Dr. Bawumia recognized their disappointment but urged them to remain hopeful. “I assure you that we will regroup and return even stronger. We may have lost this battle, but not the war.”
He extended heartfelt thanks to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, his family, campaign team, running mate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and supporters nationwide for their contributions throughout his political journey. Dr. Bawumia also commended Ghana’s traditional leaders, religious figures, security services, and the media for their roles in ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
In closing, he highlighted the resilience of Ghana’s democracy and his unwavering faith in the nation’s future. “Ghana has won,” he proclaimed. “Thank you very much, and may God bless you and our homeland Ghana.”
With this concession, Dr. Bawumia reaffirmed his dedication to democratic principles and national unity, paving the way for a peaceful transition of power and solidifying his legacy as a statesman who prioritizes the nation above all else.
