Bismark Bebli
5 January 2009
The president-elect, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, has renewed his commitment to be the father of all Ghanaians, irrespective of their political affiliations.
"The election is over, and there is only one Ghana; there is no NDC Ghana and NPP Ghana. I renew my pledge that I will be President of all Ghanaians."
In his acceptance speech, after being declared the winner of the elections, the 64-year old president elect, minced no words in commending the Electoral Commission (EC), the security agencies, the media and his contestants, especially Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
He however cautioned the supporters of the NDC to be very moderate in their celebrations.
"This year's elections featured many candidates representing various parties. The final leg involved me and Hon. Nana Akuffo Addo, a worthy son of our nation. I congratulate him and all others for the keen contest. I thank the Electoral Commissioner and his team for guiding the nation through a very tough electoral process."
According to Prof. Mills, who has just set up his transitional team, he was glad that Ghanaians had given him the opportunity to manage the affairs of the state with humility.
"I want to thank you for giving me the mandate to manage the affairs of state after January 7th 2009. I accept the onerous responsibility with all humility. We have traveled a tough road to get here."
He continued, "I am very much aware of the anxious moments, sleepless nights, long-drawn days and tension-filled hours that we have needlessly had to endure."
Turning his attention to the supporters, Prof. Mills, a former law lecturer, noted that the enduring spirit and resilience of them, made it possible for the NDC to regain power. "I also thank the security agencies for the important role they have played in the process.
"The media deserve our commendation for helping Ghanaians to keep a close eye on the election."
The president-elect praised President John Agyekum Kufuor in deepening the nation's democracy.
He also lauded him for indicating his preparedness to hand over power to him on Wednesday, January 07. "This is a plus to him personally, and to Ghana as a nation. I congratulate President Kufuor."
Prof. Mills made similar comments when he addressed another gathering of party supporters at the NDC headquarters, and admonished them to restrain themselves from provocative acts that would bring conflict.
Immediately after he addressed the meeting, he paid a visit to the founder of the NDC, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, at his Ridge residence.
A closed door meeting was held, and when the former president came out of his room, he was full of joy, but declined to speak to the media, except to say, "Today is for Prof. Mills."
At the party's headquarters, Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketsia observed that the election was a referendum of the democratisation of the nation and Africa as a whole.
According to him, the NDC, under Prof. Mills, would not engage in political witch-hunting as was being speculated.
He said the problems of the nation were enormous, and that concerted efforts and energies should be directed to solving the problems in building a better Ghana.
He appealed to the supporters of the NDC to remain calm and make their victory celebrations in a very moderate manner.
He dedicated the victory to the former Chief Executive of GNPC, Mr. Tsatsu Tsikata, now languishing in jail. Dr. Kwabena Adjei, National Chairman of the NDC, also shared similar sentiments.
The streets of Accra were jammed with scores of party supporters celebrating the victory of the NDC.
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