By Abiola Olawale
The immediate past governor of Ekiti State and former minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has dropped a bombshell, declaring Ghana as a shining example of democratic governance for the entire African continent.
Fayemi said he made this statement after carefully assessing the results from the recent general elections in Ghana.
The former governor praised the electoral process in Ghana and the country’s commitment to democratic principles, highlighting her “position as a beacon of hope and an inspiration for other nations striving for political stability and participatory governance in Africa.”
While congratulating Ghana’s President-elect, John Mahama, on his victory in the country’s recent general elections, Fayemi also commended Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his gracious concession speech.
This was contained in a press statement issued by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Head of Fayemi Media Office, Abuja.
The statement reads in part: ‘’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. His acceptance of the electoral outcome in the spirit of peace and national unity exemplifies the very best of African political leadership.
“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.
“Ghana has set high standards by proving that democracy can thrive in Africa when institutions are allowed to function independently and political actors prioritize the collective good over individual aspirations.
“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, who, 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.”
The New Diplomat reports that Mahama won the December 7 presidential election of Ghana. He returned to power after serving as President from 2012 to 2017.
Mahama had also served as Vice President of Ghana from 2009 to 2012, Member of Parliament from 1997 to 2009, and held deputy and ministerial roles between 1998 and 2001, respectively.
