Ghana has entered a new chapter in its democratic journey, with John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), emerging as the president-elect. Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) conceded defeat on Sunday, December 8, even before the official declaration by the Electoral Commission. This marks a significant victory for the NDC, which last held power in 2016.
Picture: Photo of presidential elect, H.E John Dramani Mahama (left) of the NDC and current vice president of the republic of Ghana, H.E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP (right)
In his concession speech, Bawumia stated, “Former President John Dramani Mahama has earned a clear mandate from the people of Ghana. While this is not the outcome we hoped for, I respect the will of Ghanaians and concede in the interest of peace and democracy.”
NDC Secures Majority Caucus in Parliament
Beyond the presidency, the NDC has also reclaimed the majority in Parliament, securing 162 of the 276 seats as of the latest confirmed results, according to 3news. With 44 parliamentary results yet to be announced, the NDC’s numbers are expected to rise. This development positions the NDC as the majority caucus, providing them with significant legislative influence to advance their agenda under Mahama’s administration.
A Government Accused of Corruption and Overspending
The NPP administration, led by outgoing President H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has faced widespread accusations of corruption and mismanagement. One of the most controversial aspects of their tenure has been the construction of the National Cathedral, a project the government championed as a national symbol of unity and faith.
Picture: National Cathedral of Ghana project design
Despite promising to deliver the project since taking office in 2016, the cathedral remains far from completion, with only the foundation laid after millions of dollars were spent. The lack of transparency in its financing and the government’s prioritization of the project over critical social services have angered many Ghanaians, particularly during a period of economic hardship.
Picture: The state of the National Cathedral of Ghana project as at 2024 still in its foundation stage
The NPP government has also been criticized for its record-breaking borrowing, which has significantly increased the country’s debt burden. Coupled with rising inflation, a depreciating currency, and high unemployment rates, the economic outlook under the NPP left many Ghanaians dissatisfied and eager for change.
Historic Voter Apathy
The 2024 elections were also marked by an unprecedented level of voter apathy, as many Ghanaians chose not to participate. Analysts attribute this to growing disillusionment with both major political parties and frustration with the state of the nation.
However, among those who voted, the majority supported Mahama, who garnered 52.7% of the vote, compared to 40.1% for Bawumia. Many citizens saw their votes for Mahama as a protest against the NPP, blaming the current administration for their economic struggles and expressing discontent with the party’s leadership.
Bawumia Pays the Price for Akufo-Addo’s Shortcomings
As Vice President, Bawumia was heavily involved in the government’s economic policies, which were at the center of public frustration. Despite his efforts to campaign on a platform of digitalization and economic innovation, voters seemed unwilling to separate his leadership from the perceived failures of the Akufo-Addo administration.
Picture: Current president of the Republic of Ghana, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
Parliamentary Landscape
The NDC’s 162 seats have solidified their position as the majority caucus, with Sammy Gyamfi, the party’s communications officer, expressing confidence that they will increase their numbers further as the final results trickle in. This parliamentary advantage, while not overwhelming, gives the NDC the ability to influence significant policy decisions and pursue their legislative priorities.
Ghanaians Demand Accountability
The election results reflect a broader demand for accountability and tangible solutions to the nation’s challenges. For the NDC, this victory represents an opportunity to restore public trust and rebuild the economy, while the NPP must confront the public’s growing dissatisfaction with their governance.
As Ghana moves forward, the focus will remain on how Mahama’s administration addresses the concerns of a disillusioned electorate and delivers on the promises that secured their return to power.