INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu lauds Ghana’s 2024 presidential election, highlighting political stability and innovative result management influenced by Nigeria. Ex-president John Mahama secured victory, with VP Bawumia conceding. Yakubu praised voter loyalty and Ghana’s decentralized results process as critical to the smooth electoral conduct, fostering democratic excellence in West Africa.
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, praised Ghana's electoral system, describing its recent presidential election as a testament to the country's political stability and democratic maturity. Speaking from Accra, Yakubu highlighted the innovative practices adopted by Ghana's Electoral Commission, including decentralized result management and strong voter loyalty to political parties.
Yakubu lauded Ghana's consistent party structures, noting the rarity of party switching by citizens, which he said fosters political stability. "In Ghana, supporters tend to remain loyal to their political parties regardless of whether the party is in power or opposition. This commitment enhances democratic resilience," Yakubu remarked.
He also commended Ghana’s approach to handling election results, which was inspired by Nigeria's electoral framework. Ghana’s decision to allow constituency officers to announce parliamentary results locally, while forwarding only presidential results to the capital, was cited as a step that expedited result declaration. "This decentralized approach mirrors Nigeria’s system and has significantly streamlined the process," Yakubu added.
The December 7, 2024, election saw former President John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress secure victory after his opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat. Bawumia acknowledged the electorate’s decision, stating, "The people of Ghana have spoken, and we respect their choice."
Yakubu expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the election, emphasizing its smooth execution and peaceful outcome. He affirmed Nigeria’s continued support for Ghana’s Electoral Commission in promoting transparent and credible elections.
The election outcome also marks the end of the New Patriotic Party's tenure amid economic challenges, including inflation and a debt crisis, highlighting a desire for change among Ghanaians.
