Ghana’s 2024 Elections: Commonwealth Praises Peaceful and Credible Process
Accra, 14 January 2026 – Ghana’s 2024 general elections, held on 7 December 2024, resulted in John Dramani Mahama’s return as president, with the Commonwealth Observer Group describing the process as transparent, credible, and peaceful. The report commended the professionalism of electoral staff and urged improvements in campaign financing and result announcements.
Election Overview
The elections marked Ghana’s ninth democratic polls since 1992, with Mahama securing 56.55% of the vote against Mahamudu Bawumia’s 41.61%. The process involved 40,976 polling stations and 16 political parties, with 18,774,159 valid votes cast. Observers praised the calm atmosphere and the statesmanship shown by Bawumia in conceding defeat early. However, delays in result announcements from some constituencies raised concerns, prompting recommendations for faster reporting to maintain public trust.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Winner | John Dramani Mahama (National Democratic Congress) with 6,328,397 votes (56.55%) |
| Runner-Up | Mahamudu Bawumia (New Patriotic Party) with 4,657,304 votes (41.61%) |
| Voter Turnout | 60.9% (11,191,422 valid votes out of 18,774,159 registered) |
| Polling Stations | 40,976 across the country |
| Political Parties | 16 contested, with 12 candidates qualifying |
| Rejected Ballots | 239,109 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main challenges in the 2024 elections?
While the elections were largely peaceful, issues included delays in announcing results from certain constituencies, which caused some uncertainty. The report also highlighted the need for better regulation of campaign financing to prevent corruption and ensure transparency.
How did international observers view the process?
The Commonwealth Observer Group, led by Botswana’s former president Mokgweetsi Masisi, deemed the elections credible and peaceful. They commended Ghana’s maturing democracy and the professionalism of polling staff, security, and party agents.
What recommendations were made for future elections?
The observers urged the Electoral Commission to address result delays, enhance transparency in campaign financing, and promote inclusivity. They also reiterated the need for an effective regulatory framework to avoid monetisation of politics.