Post-2024 Ghana General Elections Statement by the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), ACCRA, GHANA, 11th December 2024

1. The West African Elders Forum (WAEF) is pleased to have been on ground in the
   Republic of Ghana during the period of the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections
   which held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, in line with its mandate of conducting regular
   interface with stakeholders in the sub-region in the interest of peace, especially at election
   time.
2. The Forum extends its heartfelt congratulations to the people of Ghana for the peaceful and
   orderly conduct of the December 7, 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections.
3. We are pleased that, once again, Ghana has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to
   democracy, peace, and stability, reaffirming its position as a beacon of democratic
   governance in West Africa.
4. We extend deep appreciation to the incumbent President, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa
   Akufo-Addo, for his leadership throughout this process. We equally appreciate him for
   creating an enabling environment that allowed the Forum and other election observation
   groups to conduct their missions freely and effectively in Ghana. This demonstration of
   openness and respect for democratic processes reflects the President’s commitment to
   fostering peace, dialogue, and stability during this critical period.
5. We congratulate President-Elect, H.E. John Dramani Mahama as well as the leadership,
   and supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on his victory at the polls.
6. We note that this victory is a reflection of the will of the Ghanaian people, expressed
   through a peaceful and transparent electoral process. It is for this reason that we call on the
   President-elect and his supporters to attend to the victory with magnanimity, humility, and
   respect for all.
7. We note with admiration the concession of defeat by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice
   President of the Republic of Ghana and Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party
   (NPP), even before the official declaration of results. This reflects true statesmanship,
   exemplary display of patriotism and a commitment to Ghana’s peace and democratic
   progress.
8. The continuing trend in West Africa of candidates conceding defeat ahead of official
   announcements of results, which happened earlier this year in Liberia and Senegal, marks a
   significant step towards democratic consolidation and the entrenchment of a culture of
   peaceful political transitions in the region.
9. We appreciate the work of the Electoral Commission (EC), the Joint Security Task Force,
   political parties, and civil society organisations for their professionalism, vigilance, and
   commitment to upholding Ghana’s democratic values.
10. WAEF commends all political parties and their candidates for their active participation
    in the elections and, most importantly, for respecting the electoral process and the will of the
    people.
11. To the leadership, Presidential Candidate and supporters of the New Patriotic Party
    (NPP), we understand the disappointment that comes with this development, but we
    encourage you to see the outcome of the recent elections as a victory for Ghana.
12. The next elections offer yet another opportunity to try again—to refine strategies,
    strengthen institutions, and reconnect with the aspirations of the people. Democracy is a
    continuous process, and each election provides a chance to learn, grow, and come back
    stronger.
13. We deeply regret the violent incidents that led to the tragic loss of lives, injuries to
    voters, and the destruction of electoral materials, including the burning of the Electoral
    Commission’s office in the Domingo District, Savannah Region.
14. Elections must never be approached as a war or a ‘do-or-die’ affair. They are
    opportunities for citizens to peacefully express their will and determine their collective
    future. We reiterate that no political ambition is worth the blood of innocent citizens.
    Violence undermines the very essence of democracy and erodes the hard-earned peace and
    stability that Ghana is renowned for.
15. We call on all stakeholders, particularly political leaders, to restrain their supporters and
    embrace dialogue and lawful means of addressing grievances. We urge security agencies to
    swiftly investigate and hold accountable those responsible for these incidents while ensuring
    the safety of all citizens and electoral materials.
16. The West African Elders Forum remains committed to supporting Ghana and other West
    African nations in their democratic journeys. We encourage ongoing dialogue, peaceful
    conflict resolution, and institutional strengthening to ensure continued stability in the region.
17. Together, let us celebrate this milestone and work towards a future of peace, progress,
    and prosperity for Ghana and West Africa.

Signed,
Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan
Chairman, Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF)
Head of WAEF Election Mission to the 2024 Ghana General Elections
Thursday December 11, 2024