- Mahama Wins Presidency Again
- NDC Secures Parliamentary Majority
- Bawumia Concedes Defeat Peacefully
Former President John Dramani Mahama has emerged victorious in Ghana’s 2024 presidential election, marking his return to the nation’s highest office after a heated contest. The announcement was made by the Electoral Commission (EC) on Monday, December 9, confirming Mahama’s win with 6,328,397 votes, which accounts for 56.55% of the valid votes cast. His main rival, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), secured 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.
Mahama’s victory also solidified the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s position as the majority party in Parliament. The NDC has already secured over 160 seats, including several key constituencies traditionally held by the ruling NPP. This result strengthens Mahama’s mandate as he prepares to return to the presidency.
The 2024 election saw a voter turnout of 60.9%. While the election process was largely peaceful, some incidents of violence and logistical challenges were reported in specific constituencies, such as Damongo, Ablekuma Central, and Okaikwei North.
In his concession speech, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia acknowledged Mahama’s victory and called on his supporters to accept the results peacefully. “We have fought a good fight. The people have spoken, and we must respect their decision,” Bawumia said, urging for unity and calm as Ghana moves forward.
Mahama is expected to address the nation soon after the official declaration by the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa. In his speech, Mahama is likely to outline his vision for the country as he prepares for his second term in office, which will begin with his swearing-in on January 7, 2025.
Both local and international observers have commended the Electoral Commission for overseeing a transparent and credible election, despite some challenges during the election period.
Mahama, who served as president from 2012 to 2016, had previously lost the 2016 election to President Akufo-Addo and was unable to reclaim the presidency in 2020. However, his victory in 2024 follows predictions from several polling organizations, including the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Global InfoAnalytics, and Fitch, which forecasted a win for the opposition.
