John Mahama Returns to Ghana’s Presidency
International News Department 09-12-2024
John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s former president, has achieved a historic comeback, reclaiming the presidency in a decisive electoral victory. His opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat, acknowledging the people’s clear call for change. The concession followed Saturday’s election, which marked the end of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) two terms under President Nana Akufo-Addo, a period defined by economic hardship, high inflation, and a debt default crisis.
In a Sunday press conference, Bawumia expressed humility, stating, “The people of Ghana have spoken. The people have voted for change at this time, and we respect it with all humility.” He confirmed calling Mahama to congratulate him, while the NPP’s internal tallies acknowledged the NDC’s parliamentary victory.
Preliminary results indicated Mahama, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), secured 56.3% of the vote, leaving Bawumia with 41.3%. Mahama, aged 65, is the first leader in Ghana’s Fourth Republic history to return to office after losing a previous election. He had served as president between July 2012 and January 2017.
His supporters celebrated exuberantly outside the NDC’s campaign headquarters in Accra, blaring horns and cheering. Mahama confirmed receiving Bawumia’s congratulatory call on X (formerly Twitter), describing his victory as “emphatic.”
During his campaign, Mahama vowed to address Ghana’s ongoing economic challenges. He promised reforms to “reset” the country, focusing on stabilizing the economy and creating a more equitable society. Ghana, a leading producer of gold and cacao, has recently faced currency devaluation, debt default, and a $3 billion IMF bailout.
A key part of Mahama’s platform was combating corruption. He pledged to establish an oversight office for government procurements exceeding $5 million, citing unchecked procurement processes as a significant source of corruption. However, Mahama also voiced support for the controversial anti-LGBTQ bill passed by Ghana’s parliament, which has drawn international criticism but remains unsigned into law.
Ghana’s election commission is expected to announce official results soon, although the NPP has already conceded the parliamentary election to the NDC. Ghana’s democratic process remains a model for stability in the region, with power alternating between the NPP and NDC since the 1992 adoption of multi-party politics.
Mahama’s return to the presidency represents a critical turning point in Ghana’s political history. As he prepares to lead once again, his administration faces the monumental task of steering the nation out of its economic crisis and delivering on promises of reform and recovery.
