ACCRA, Ghana — John Dramani Mahama, the former president of Ghana, has been officially declared the winner of the presidential election held on Monday, marking a significant political shift in the country amidst widespread dissatisfaction over the ongoing economic difficulties. Mahama, who previously held the presidency from 2012 to 2017, secured 56.5% of the votes, translating to approximately 6.3 million ballots cast in his favor, according to the electoral commission. His primary rival, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, representing the ruling New Patriotic Party, conceded defeat after receiving 41%, which is around 4.6 million votes. The official announcement came as the vote count continued in nine constituencies, although the electoral commissioner stated these results were unlikely to alter the overall outcome of the election. Voter turnout was reported at just over 60%.
Mahama’s campaign focused on the urgent need for economic reform, resonating particularly with the youth who were eager for change amid the rising cost of living. In his victory address, Mahama emphasized the commitment to ensuring that basic necessities such as affordable housing, healthcare, nutritious food, clean water, safe working conditions, and fair wages are accessible to all Ghanaians. He articulated a vision for a nation that prioritizes the well-being of every citizen, stating, “We want a Ghana that considers the well-being of all her citizens and affords them each the ability to live a life of dignity, a life of limitless opportunity.” Mahama also indicated that the recent eight-year tenure of outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo has inflicted lasting damage to the national mindset and called for collective healing.
Mahama’s victory aligns with a global trend where opposition parties are increasingly gaining grounds against incumbents. His party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), also gained the majority in parliament, signaling a shift in the political landscape. Following Bawumia’s concession, celebrations erupted among opposition supporters in the capital city of Accra, with women and youth engaging in joyful dances accompanied by music and jubilant sounds of trumpets.
The election, which encompassed both presidential and parliamentary votes, served as a crucial barometer for democracy within a region often plagued by violence and instability. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) characterized the election as generally peaceful, a status often attributed to Ghana’s electoral processes. The ruling New Patriotic Party has faced mounting challenges in addressing the economic crises that have escalated during Akufo-Addo’s administration.
Many supporters, including policy analyst Jude Agbemava, expressed confidence that Mahama is “the only person” capable of revitalizing the struggling economy of Ghana, which is recognized as one of West Africa’s economic leaders. Seidu Alidu, who heads the political science department at the University of Legon, noted that the electorate’s discontent stemmed from a government that had lost its appeal. He emphasized how economic conditions are paramount for the populace, stating, “The economy is largely a bread and butter issue for every Ghanaian.” Alidu further remarked that voters expect transparency and honesty from their leaders, especially when they face economic hardships, contrasting the current administration’s communication style with that of other governments grappling with similar challenges.
