Monrovia –Former Liberian President George Weah has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ghana’s former President John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) on his victory in Ghana’s recent presidential and parliamentary elections.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
In a statement, Weah described Mahama’s triumph as a testament to his resilience and the Ghanaian people’s desire for a new direction.
“His triumph is a testament to his perseverance and valor, and the Ghanaian people’s yearning for a change in the direction of their country,” Weah said.
Weah, who conceded defeat after narrowly losing Liberia’s 2023 Presidential Elections, commended Ghana’s Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for graciously conceding defeat even before the official results were announced.
“I also wish to congratulate his contender, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for his statesmanship by conceding defeat even before the votes were fully counted and announced by the Electoral Commission. His action once again raises the world’s admiration for the robustness of Ghanaian democracy,” Weah stated.
Weah praised the Ghanaian people for achieving another democratic milestone, emphasizing its significance in the broader context of Africa’s democratic progress. He noted that Ghana’s elections demonstrate growing respect for the rule of law and the will of the people despite challenges elsewhere on the continent.
The former Liberian leader also commended outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo for overseeing a peaceful and transparent electoral process. He lauded Akufo-Addo’s leadership, stating that his tenure leaves behind an “enviable democratic legacy.”
Weah expressed optimism that other nations in the region would learn from Ghana’s enduring tradition of democratic governance.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia formally accepted defeat and congratulated Mahama, acknowledging the people’s call for change during a time of economic hardship.
“The people have voted for change,” Bawumia said.
The elections occurred amid Ghana’s worst economic crisis in a generation, with the country defaulting on its debt. Although Bawumia conceded, the Electoral Commission cited delays in declaring the results due to disruptions at collation centers caused by party supporters. Police were called to address the situation.
According to the BBC, Mahama’s supporters have already taken to the streets to celebrate in key strongholds such as Tamale, Kumasi, and Accra, despite no official results being declared.
The peaceful conduct of Ghana’s elections once again highlights the country’s position as a beacon of democracy in Africa.