Former President Jerry John Rawlings has in a statement stated that the election that saw Nana Addo, presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was a manifestation of the desire of Ghanaians for a new leadership.

The former President in the statement congratulated the former attorney general and president-elect for winning the presidential election. “You have been elected as President because the electorate believes you have the ability to confront these challenges and lead the country with fearlessness, humility and honesty.

“I commend you for committing to be a leader for all Ghanaians in your acceptance address. The onus is on you to pursue a leadership that unifies the people so members of the losing side have no reason to feel insecure,'' he said.

The Electoral Commission (EC) declared the NPP leader as president elect with 53.85% of the valid votes cast. He defeated the incumbent, John Mahama of the governing NDC who obtained 44.40% of the total valid votes cast.

Read full statement “I write to extend my warm congratulations on the occasion of your electoral victory," he said. “Your victory is a manifestation of the people’s desire for new leadership and comes with enormous responsibilities including a commitment to pursue an anti-corruption drive across-the-board.

“Ghana faces huge challenges, many of which you promised to tackle during your campaign tours. “You have been elected as President because the electorate believes you have the ability to confront these challenges and lead the country with fearlessness, humility and honesty.

“I commend you for committing to be a leader for all Ghanaians in your acceptance address. The onus is on you to pursue a leadership that unifies the people so members of the losing side have no reason to feel insecure.

“I wish you the best of luck as you prepare to assume the mantle of leadership. “God bless you and our homeland Ghana,” the message concluded.