Elections: Learn From Ghana’s Democratic Practice, Tinubu Urges ECOWAS Leaders

By Joshua Omoniyi 

In recent events, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has called on leaders from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take a good look at how Ghana conducted its recent elections. This comes after Ghana successfully held presidential and parliamentary elections, marking a significant moment for democracy in West Africa.

Last Saturday, former President John Mahama was reelected to lead Ghana, defeating the current Vice President, Mahamud Bawumia. What stood out was Bawumia's decision to congratulate Mahama even before the official results were announced, showing a remarkable level of respect for the democratic process. This act of sportsmanship is something Tinubu believes other nations in the region should learn from.

Speaking at the 66th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the importance of Ghana's election as a model for others. He praised Ghana's outgoing President, Nana Akufo-Addo, for overseeing a smooth election process and highlighted the political maturity displayed by the candidates.

“Just last week, Ghana held its elections, which is the second largest democracy in our region,” Tinubu said. “The incumbent Vice President, Mahamud Bawumia, conceded defeat and accepted the outcome by congratulating John Mahama even before the official results were out. This is a significant lesson for all of us.”

Tinubu's call for unity and respect in politics is especially relevant for Nigerians and others in the region. A peaceful transition of power, like the one seen in Ghana, can help build trust among citizens and encourage a sense of national pride. When leaders accept the results of elections gracefully, it sets a positive example for the people and can help reduce tensions that often arise during political contests.

The Nigerian President also took time to commend Senegal for its recent successful parliamentary elections, reinforcing the idea that democratic processes are crucial for stability in West Africa. He urged all ECOWAS member states to work together to create a safe and enabling environment for their citizens to thrive.

“We have an obligation to raise the living standards of our people,” he said. “When we work together, we can protect our citizens and provide them with better opportunities.”

As the meeting continued behind closed doors, the discussions also touched on the economic cooperation among ECOWAS countries, which has improved due to various policies aimed at fostering growth and stability in the region.

For everyday citizens, these discussions and the lessons from Ghana's elections can have a significant impact. When leaders prioritize democracy and cooperation, it leads to a more stable environment where people can live, work, and raise families without fear of political turmoil. It can inspire hope for a future where government serves the people effectively and responsibly.

As the region faces various challenges, including economic issues and political unrest, the examples set by Ghana can serve as a beacon of hope. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in the political process, knowing that a peaceful and democratic society is beneficial for everyone, from business owners to students.

In conclusion, as President Tinubu and other ECOWAS leaders reflect on Ghana's elections, it is a reminder that democracy is not just about votes but also about respect, cooperation, and the commitment to serve the people. The impact of these choices can resonate deeply within communities, shaping the future of West Africa for generations to come.