Nduom concedes defeat, hints at comeback in 2012

Accra, Dec. 8, GNA - Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom, Presidential candidate of the Convention People's Party (CPP), on Monday conceded defeat in the 2008 elections, dropping hints of his intention to lead the Party again in 2012.

"I accept the results of the December 7 elections and encourage all my followers to do so as well," he said at a press conference in Accra. Dropping hints of his intention to stay in politics, Dr Nduom said there was a lot ahead of him in politics and those who wished to contest for the presidential candidature of the party should know that he would be around.

Dr Nduom said even though the CPP had been considered a "third force" and the "potential kingmaker" and given serious attention and recognition because of its "great message, perseverance, consistency and a peaceful, purposeful campaign", Ghanaians had told the world they wanted change.

"The people of Ghana have spoken loud and clear. In many ways they have told the world that they want change the citizens of this land can benefit from.

"This statement, I believe, may have motivated a lot of people to decide between the NPP and the NDC, which one of those two political parties could win without going through a second round of voting." "We hoped to do well, based on the expression for change, those we counted on decided to choose a different party - one with the ability to command the votes to win the elections," he said. Dr Nduom acknowledged the ability of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to marshal both human and financial resources to gain the confidence of Ghanaians and for their determination to win.

He, however, entreated the leadership of both political parties to "treat the trust Ghanaians have put in them so far carefully and with respect while we wait for the final results of the lections so that we can avoid violence and chaos in our society".

The CPP presidential candidate applauded other parties and independent candidates who contested the polls for working hard to give Ghanaians alternatives and making the democratic process meaningful. He commended the Electoral Commission for maintaining its credibility even with the challenges it encountered during the process. Even though the final results of the elections have not yet been announced by the EC, certified polling station and constituency results indicate that the CPP's bid for the seat of government has petered out. He said the CPP would ensure that the promises made by whichever party that won were implemented for the benefit for all.