The ensuing events of Akufo-Addo’s victory at the presidential polls have been dominated by congratulatory messages sent from friends and foes alike with foreign nations like the US and Britain following suit.
The two nations, in addition to congratulating president-elect Akufo-Addo also commended the incumbent president Dramani Mahama for respecting the outcome of the polls. Also, they both assured Akufo-Addo that their countries would be available to support his regime.
Representing the US in a press statement was Deputy Department Spokesperson Mark C. Toner. His statement reads thus;
“The United States congratulates the people of Ghana on the successful conclusion of the December 7 general election. We also congratulate President-elect Nana Akufo-Addo. The peaceful and inclusive nature of the election is a testament to Ghana’s citizens and its vibrant democracy.”
“We commend President Mahama for respecting the results announced by the Electoral Commission, calling on his supporters to do the same, and demonstrating the leadership and commitment to democracy for which Ghana is known throughout the world.
“We commend Ghana’s Electoral Commission for administering a credible election process. We also recognize the many civil society organizations that contributed to a peaceful, transparent, and fair election.”
“As the Secretary said in his calls with the candidates, the United States and Ghana have a close and enduring friendship rooted in our mutual commitment to freedom and democratic values. We look forward to working with President-elect Akufo-Addo and his administration on economic growth, health, governance, and security in Ghana and throughout West Africa.”
See Also: IMANI Outlines 5 Vital Issues President Elect Akufo-Addo Must Prioritize
Representing Britain was controversial figure Boris Johnson, who was recently appointed by Prime Minister Theresa May as the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. His words were;
“I congratulate Nana Akufo-Addo on his election as President-elect of Ghana. I also pay tribute to John Dramani Mahama and the other presidential candidates for their statesmanship in accepting the result and respecting the will of the Ghanaian people.”
“Through their peaceful conduct during the election, the people of Ghana have written the next chapter in Ghana’s democracy, a democracy that continues to inspire people across the region and the continent. The UK values the excellent partnership it has with Ghana and I look forward to working with the new President and his government….”
Nana Akufo-Addo scored 5, 716, 026 (53.85) votes while his NDC opponent Dramani Mahama managed 4, 713, 277 (44.40%). Following the results as released by the EC, President Mahama alongside 5 other opponents called the NPP front man to concede defeat.
Mahama also released a concession speech promising to ensure a smooth transition of power as well as support for the imminent NPP-led government. Part of his concession speech reads;
“I wish to congratulate the President Elect. I will like to assure the people of Ghana of my commitment to the sustenance of our country’s democracy and we will work to ensure a smooth transition of our incoming administration. I remain committed to the unity and stability of our great nation.”
The president also expressed his wish to continue the honour of serving his country. He said; As President, I have done my bit and made a contribution to the political social and economic development of our country. I would have cherished an opportunity to even do more but I respect the will of the Ghanaian people.”
However, he didn’t conclude without thanking his avid supporters and expressing enormous gratitude to members of his cabinet for standing by him throughout his four-year rule of the country. President-elect Akufo-Addo will be sworn into office on 7 January 2017.
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