Bawumia demonstrated maturity and statesmanship in conceding defeat – GJA

The Media Coalition Ghana has commended the Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, for his exemplary display of “maturity and statesmanship” in conceding defeat in the 2024 general elections.

Speaking on behalf of the group on Tuesday, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour applauded Dr Bawumia for taking the gracious step of calling President-elect, John Mahama to congratulate him, even before the Electoral Commission officially declared the results.

This act, Mr Dwumfour noted, demonstrates true leadership and commitment to the peace and unity of Ghana.

“This is indeed commendable,” he stated, adding that Dr Bawumia’s actions serve as a powerful example of how politicians should conduct themselves in the face of electoral outcomes.

The group also congratulated President-elect, John Mahama on his victory, urging him and his supporters to be measured and magnanimous in their celebrations to avoid exacerbating tensions.

At the same time, Mr Dwumfour called on those disappointed with the election results to exhibit restraint and avoid confrontations, drawing inspiration from D. Bawumia’s calm and conciliatory approach.

Expressing concern over reports of vandalism and destruction of state property in parts of the country, the Media Coalition Ghana strongly condemned these actions, stating that such behaviour undermines national stability and wastes taxpayers’ resources.

The Association called on the leadership of both the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to actively encourage their supporters to act responsibly during this critical period, stressing the importance of preserving peace and unity in the nation.

“We condemn this act of vandalism and call on the perpetrators to stop it immediately. We can’t waste taxpayers money. It is our money. If you destroy it, they will use the same money, to bring it back to its normal existence,” Mr Dwumfour stated.

The group urged Ghanaians to draw lessons from Dr Bawumia’s example of maintaining peace and work together to uphold the nation’s democratic values.