West African nation Ghana becomes the fifth African country to witness an opposition victory this year. Ghana's former president John Dramani Mahama was officially declared the winner of the presidential election on Monday evening, following public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the economy. 

Mahama, who previously served as president from 2012 to 2017, secured 56.5 percent of the total votes cast, according to the electoral commission. His main rival, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat on Sunday after garnering 41 percent votes.

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Ghana's election is the fifth opposition victory in Africa this year, a record-breaking year for the continent in terms of power transitions, as reported by the BBC. Over the past year, Botswana, Mauritius, Senegal, and the self-declared republic of Somaliland have also seen opposition parties assume power. 

Mahama's win is also viewed as a part of a global trend of opposition parties gaining ground against incumbents, as witnessed in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.

Celebrations broke out on Sunday in parts of the country, including the capital city, after the results were announced. Supporters of the opposition, wearing the party's colors of white, green, red, and black, danced in the streets and at the party's national headquarters to music and the sound of trumpets.

The presidential and parliamentary elections were held amid the nation’s worst cost-of-living crisis in decades. It was seen as a litmus test for democracy in a region shaken by extremist violence and coups. 

About Ghana

In Ghana, the president serves as both the head of state and government. Presidential and vice-presidential elections take place every four years. The president appoints a council of ministers, who are then approved by parliament. These ministers lead various government departments.

Ghana, with a population of nearly 35 million, is the second-most populous country in West Africa. The country is home to more than 50 ethnic groups, each with its own customs and languages. The Akan, the largest ethnic group, comprises around 45 per cent of the population. Predominantly living in villages, they grow their food on farms.