Former President John Dramani Mahama has been officially declared the winner of Ghana’s 2024 presidential election, marking a remarkable return to the nation’s highest office.
The Electoral Commission (EC) announced on Monday, December 9, that Mahama secured 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes cast. He defeated his closest rival, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who obtained 4,657,304 votes (41.61%).
The National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mahama’s party, also achieved a majority in Parliament, clinching over 160 seats, including several key constituencies traditionally held by the NPP. This legislative dominance reinforces Mahama’s mandate as he prepares for his swearing-in on January 7, 2025.
Despite isolated incidents of violence and logistical issues in constituencies such as Damongo and Ablekuma Central, the election recorded a 60.9% voter turnout and was largely peaceful. The Electoral Commission and observers have been commended for ensuring a transparent process.
Dr. Bawumia conceded defeat gracefully, urging his supporters to accept the outcome and maintain peace. Mahama is expected to address the nation soon to outline his vision for his second term.
Mahama, who served as President from 2012 to 2016, had previously lost the 2016 election to President Akufo-Addo and also failed to reclaim the presidency in 2020.
However, following predictions from several polling organizations, including the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Global InfoAnalytics, and Fitch, that forecast a victory for the opposition, Mahama’s return marks a significant political shift.
As Mahama prepares for his return to the presidency, the NDC’s overwhelming victory in Parliament will serve as a key element of his political strength as he takes on the challenges of leading Ghana through the next four years.
