The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has explained why he chose to concede defeat in the presidential election even before the Electoral Commission (EC) officially announced the results.
According to Bawumia, his decision was motivated by a desire to maintain peace and stability in Ghana.
However, some members of his team advised against conceding early, arguing that it was unprecedented and that the data might not be entirely accurate.
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"Ghana needs peace," Dr. Bawumia stated. "Even though the Electoral Commission had not yet declared the results, I knew that conceding was the best way to calm nerves and avoid any potential violence that could harm investor confidence in our country."
“Our data was clear and accurate. Waiting would only create more tension and increase the risk of violence because the narrative being pushed was that we were trying to rig the election,” he explained.
“Some said ‘no one has ever conceded before the EC’s announcement, but I said, there is a first time for everything."
Bawumia conceded defeat on December 8, just hours after the vote counting began.
The following day, the Electoral Commission declared John Dramani Mahama the winner, with 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes cast.
Bawumia's early concession has been lauded by many for demonstrating leadership and considering the country’s peace over political interests.