The narrative portraying Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the first incumbent presidential candidate in Ghana’s Fourth Republic to concede defeat before the Electoral Commission’s formal declaration of results is historically inaccurate.

According to former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, this claim overlooks a significant precedent set by Professor John Evans Atta Mills, the Vice President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate in the 2000 election runoff.

On December 29, 2000, a day after the election and before the official declaration by Electoral Commission Chairman Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan on December 30, Prof. Mills graciously conceded defeat to his opponent, Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

His gesture of statesmanship was acknowledged both by Mr. Kufuor and the Electoral Commission, symbolising a pivotal moment in Ghana’s democratic evolution.

Notably, Dr. Bawumia, whose family held significant ties to the NDC during this period, cannot reasonably claim ignorance of this historical event.

His father, as Chairman of the Council of State, was deeply embedded in the political developments of the time. While some observers, including diplomats and clergy, may lack awareness of this electoral history, the facts remain indisputable.

Prof. Mills’ statesmanlike conduct serves as a reminder of the political maturity required to foster peace and ensure smooth transitions in Ghana’s democratic journey.

Read Mr. Martin Amidu’s full statement below: