‘I Didn’t Vote Against Myself’ – Nana Kwame Bediako Sets The Record Straight On 2024 Election Rumors

Nana Kwame Bediako, leader of the New Force and a presidential candidate in the 2024 general elections, has dismissed claims that he did not vote for himself during the December 7 polls. Addressing a press conference in Accra on December 23, 2024, he described the rumors as baseless and misleading, emphasizing his commitment to integrity and Ghana’s democratic process.

The speculations arose after reports revealed a surprising discrepancy in votes at his polling station, with viral videos and social media commentary suggesting that he cast his ballot for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Nana Kwame Bediako clarified the misunderstanding, explaining that after voting, he briefly paused to count the candidates on the ballot paper to confirm the total matched the 13 contestants.

“While counting the names, someone misconstrued it as me voting for another candidate,” he said. “The 276-tour that I did, with all the challenges, the kind of food, water, and cold I endured , do Ghanaians believe I went ahead and voted for someone else?” He continued, “Let me clear it once and for all: I voted for myself, my wife voted for me, and so did my family.”

His wife, Ruby Bediako, had earlier voiced her frustration over what she referred to as her “missing vote.” Reports indicated that Nana Kwame Bediako received only one vote at the polling station where both cast their ballots in the Korle Klottey constituency at the UniMAC-GIJ Campus. “I’m heartbroken because I believe the system failed us. Where is my vote?” she lamented in an earlier interview.

Despite her disappointment, Ruby maintained an optimistic outlook, saying, “Ghana won, and that’s what matters. Let’s support the President-elect and move forward as a nation.”

Nana Kwame Bediako secured 84,478 votes in the election, representing 0.75% of the total valid votes cast. Reflecting on the outcome, he expressed gratitude to his supporters and reaffirmed his dedication to promoting peace. “Sometimes God gives you 1, sometimes 10, or even 9. I chose peace, and in that sense, I feel like I won,” he remarked.

The 2024 presidential elections saw National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate John Dramani Mahama declared the winner with 6,328,397 votes. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP followed with 4,657,304 votes. The NDC also made history by securing a parliamentary majority with 185 seats.

Nana Kwame Bediako’s press conference concluded with a call for unity and accountability. “Let’s move forward as a nation, focusing on building a stronger and more united Ghana,” he urged.