2024 elections: Dr. Bawumia concedes defeat

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the governing New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, has graciously accepted his defeat in the 2024 general elections.

In a televised address from his residence, just hours after early election results began to emerge, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the victory of his opponent, former President John Dramani Mahama, and thanked the Ghanaian people for entrusting him with the roles of Vice President and presidential candidate.

Dr. Bawumia noted that the provisional results from his party’s internal tally indicated a win for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Mr. Mahama. He confirmed that he had personally called the President-elect to offer his congratulations.

“As I stated during the signing of the peace pact, I was certain of two things: Ghana would win, and peace would prevail,” Dr. Bawumia said. “The people of Ghana have spoken. They have voted for change, and we humbly respect that decision.”

Emphasizing the importance of peace and democracy, Dr. Bawumia explained that his decision to concede ahead of the official announcement was intended to help defuse any potential tension and reinforce Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy in Africa.

“It is crucial for the global investor community to maintain confidence in Ghana’s peaceful and democratic nature. These are our most valuable assets,” he remarked, reiterating that his commitment to the nation outweighs any personal political ambitions.

Dr. Bawumia expressed pride in his campaign and gratitude to the NPP for their unwavering support, while accepting the electoral outcome as a natural part of the democratic process. “We presented our policies and programs to the electorate, but at times, the voters choose a different path,” he noted.

He also pledged the NPP’s full support for a smooth transition of power and assured the country that the party would provide constructive opposition. “We will not be a disruptive force, but we will hold the government accountable in the interest of Ghana,” he declared.

Addressing NPP supporters, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged their disappointment and urged them to remain optimistic. “We may have lost this battle, but we will regroup and return even stronger,” he said.

Dr. Bawumia expressed his deep gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, his campaign team, running mate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and all NPP supporters for their dedication and encouragement throughout the campaign. He also thanked Ghana’s traditional leaders, religious groups, security services, and the media for their contributions to ensuring a peaceful election.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Bawumia reaffirmed his faith in Ghana’s democracy and its bright future. “Ghana has won,” he declared.

“Thank you, and may God bless you and our homeland Ghana.”

Through this concession, Dr. Bawumia not only demonstrated his commitment to democratic principles but also reinforced his legacy as a statesman who prioritizes the unity and progress of Ghana above all else.