Former President Mahama wins Ghana Election in Triumphant Return

John Dramani Mahama, former President of Ghana from 2012 to 2017, has won the 2024 presidential election with a significant margin, marking a historic comeback. Mahama, representing the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), defeated Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). He secured approximately 56.55% of the vote, while Bawumia received around 41.61%. The voter turnout was reported at 60.9%.

Mahama’s victory came amidst widespread economic discontent in Ghana, with voters expressing frustration over high inflation, unemployment, and a general cost of living crisis. His campaign focused on economic recovery, promising a “24-hour economy” to boost job creation and economic activity. Additionally, Mahama’s return to the presidency makes him the first leader in Ghana’s Fourth Republic to reclaim the office after being voted out.

The election results were officially declared by the Ghana Electoral Commission, and Bawumia conceded defeat before the official announcement, which was aimed at preserving peace in the country. Celebrations among Mahama’s supporters were widespread, highlighting a strong public desire for change. This shift in power continues the pattern of alternation between the NDC and NPP since the return of multi-party democracy in 1992 in Ghana.