John Mahama wins Ghana’s presidential election

Ghana’s Vice-President, Mahamudu Bawumia, has conceded defeat in Saturday’s election and extended his congratulations to opposition candidate and former President John Mahama on his victory.

“The people have voted for change,” Bawumia stated, acknowledging the electorate’s decision amid Ghana’s most severe economic crisis in decades, which led to the nation defaulting on its debt.

Despite the concession, the Electoral Commission (EC) has yet to officially declare results. The EC reported delays caused by disruptions from supporters of both major parties at collation centres and has called on police to restore order.

Meanwhile, Mahama’s supporters have taken to the streets in celebration across the country.

Bawumia explained that his concession was based on internal tallies from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), which indicated Mahama had secured a decisive victory. He also noted that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) appeared to have won the parliamentary election.

“My decision to accept defeat ahead of the official announcement is to prevent further tension and preserve our nation’s peace,” Bawumia added.

Outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo steps down after completing the constitutional limit of two terms.

Mahama, 65, previously served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017 before losing to Akufo-Addo.

Since the introduction of multi-party politics in Ghana in 1992, only the NDC and NPP have held the presidency, with no party ever winning more than two consecutive terms—a pattern likely to continue.

Mahama’s earlier tenure was marked by economic struggles, power outages, and corruption scandals. However, Ghanaians are hopeful for a more prosperous and stable future under his renewed leadership.