Members of the Diplomatic Corps have saluted the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for helping preserve Ghana’s enviable record as a democratic hub in the world.
The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, His Excellency Maher Kheir who is also Lebanon Ambassador to Ghana who led the diplomats to visit the Vice President at the Jubilee House congratulated him for being a statesman and taking an action which has been another feather in Ghana’s enviable democratic cup.
“Your unwavering commitment to the values of democracy, especially through your honourable concession in the recent elections, stands as a testament to your statesmanship and love for the nation. In moments of political transition, it is the strength of character and respect for the democratic process that define a leader,” he said.
H.E Kheir added that Dr Bawumia by this action has not only shown to the world the maturity of Ghana’s democracy but also placed a responsibility on all leaders to uphold the ideals of peace, unity, and progress for the nation.
“Your actions reaffirm the confidence the international community has in Ghana as a model for democratic governance…as the Diplomatic Corps, we applaud your example and courage all stakeholders to continue strengthening this legacy.
“Let us celebrate Ghana’s democracy not just as a system but as a shared commitment to values that uplift it’s people and inspire others.” He added.
Dr Bawumia while addressing the diplomats offered reasons for his early concession of defeat in the 2024 Presidential elections.
Dr Bawumia who led the NPP into the 2024 elections made history when he mounted a podium less than 24 hours after close of polls on December 7, 2024 to concede defeat in the polls and congratulate his main contender, John Mahama for his victory.
“I have spoken to President-elect John Dramani Mahama to congratulate him on his victory. The people of Ghana have spoken, and we must respect their decision,” Dr Bawumia stated at a press conference on December 8, 2024.
His concession speech has been received with varied reactions from Ghanaians and foreigners alike.
Addressing members of the Diplomatic corps, Dr Bawumia explained that several factors were taken into consideration before conceding defeat.
Chief amongst the reasons, the Vice President said was the desire to protect and preserve Ghana’s peace.
Dr Bawumia said the NPP, through its internal collation mechanism, knew at dawn that the election had been lost, therefore waiting for the EC to go through days of putting together their documents would lead to days of unnecessary tension and potential disturbances and violence.
“I was also concerned about the economic impact of any disturbances/violence, especially as the country is gradually recovering from the various challenges and the
security implications for the subregion of any violence/conflict in Ghana. Terrorists would take advantage and spread anarchy…,” he said.
