Ghana’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has conceded defeat to former President John Dramani Mahama in the country’s closely contested presidential election.
Bawumia, the candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), made the announcement during a press conference at his residence on Sunday, before the official declaration of results by the Electoral Commission.
Election results so far indicate a clear victory for Mahama, the candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Mahama has secured 976,644 votes, representing 56.39%, while Bawumia trails with 738,493 votes, representing 42.64%.
Bawumia explained that his decision to concede was in the national interest and to uphold Ghana’s reputation as a bastion of peace and democracy in West Africa.
“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.”
He added that his early concession was aimed at avoiding unnecessary tension and maintaining stability in the country.
“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,” he said.
