Former Government of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has congratulated Ghana’s President-elect, John Mahama, on his victory in the country’s recent general elections.
This is contained in a statement by the Head, Fayemi Media Office, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, on Sunday in Abuja.
Fayemi also commended Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his gracious concession speech.
According to Fayemi, Bawumia’s acceptance of the electoral outcome in the spirit of peace and national unity exemplifies the very best of African political leadership.
He said that Ghana had become a model of democracy for Africa, emphasising the importance of respecting the will of the people and the supremacy of democratic principles.
‘’As a friend to both men and a committed advocate of democratic principles across Africa, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the President-Elect of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, on his resounding victory in the recently concluded general elections.
“This triumph reflects the trust and confidence the people of Ghana have in his leadership and vision for their country.
‘’I equally commend Dr. Mahamamudu Bawumia, presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his gracious concession speech.
‘’Dr. Bawumia’s decision to place the interest of Ghana above personal ambition reinforces the values of democracy and demonstrates a maturity that will undoubtedly serve as a model for political actors across the continent.
‘’As Africans, we must draw lessons from Ghana’s example.
“The supremacy of the people’s will is the cornerstone of democracy and the desire to serve must always align with the mandate freely given by the electorate, not through coercion or manipulation,” he said.
The former Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum said that Ghana had set high standards by proving that democracy could thrive in Africa when institutions were allowed to function independently and political actors prioritise the collective good over individual aspirations.
According to him, as Nigeria and other African nations continue to strengthen their democratic foundations, the Ghanaian experience provides a blueprint for conducting elections that are credible, peaceful, and reflective of the people’s choice.
‘’I therefore urge all political actors across the continent to emulate the exemplary conduct displayed by both President-Elect Mahama and Dr. Bawumia.
“They, through their actions, have deepened the democratic culture in their country and solidified its position as a beacon of hope and a model for democracy in Africa,’’ he said. (NAN)
