Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has shared that his campaign team opposed his decision to concede defeat early in the 7 December elections.
Despite their concerns, Bawumia chose to acknowledge the results promptly in order to preserve the peace and stability of Ghana.
Bawumia publicly conceded defeat on December 8, just hours after the counting of votes began, and before the Electoral Commission had officially declared the results.
On December 9, the Commission declared John Dramani Mahama as the winner, securing 6,328,397 votes, or 56.55% of the valid votes cast.
Speaking to supporters at his residence on December 26, Dr. Bawumia explained his reasoning behind the early concession. He emphasized that his decision was motivated by a commitment to Ghana’s democratic principles and to maintaining peace in the country.
“The stability of Ghana must always come first,” he declared, stressing his dedication to the nation’s well-being.
Bawumia also expressed his gratitude to his supporters for their steadfast dedication throughout the campaign and urged them to continue working towards a stronger, more united Ghana.
He recounted the internal discussions within his team, saying, “Even though the Electoral Commission had not yet pronounced [the winner], some of my people were advising me not to concede, questioning whether the data was accurate. They suggested waiting. But I said, look, we know this data is right from our own system.”
Bawumia further explained his reasoning: “If we had waited, it could have created more tension and potential violence. People might have thought we were trying to rig the election, and that’s the narrative that was circulating.”
“But nobody has ever conceded an election before the EC’s official declaration, and I said there’s a first time for everything.”
