Today, December 7, Ghanaians will cast ballots in what is expected to be one of the most important elections in the nation’s history to choose a new president and 275 members of Parliament.
As President Nana Akufo-Addo serves out his two-term maximum under the constitution, the election comes after his term is over.
Former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been at the center of the race to succeed him. Experienced economist Dr. Bawumia is running on a platform of continuity, highlighting the NPP’s track record of infrastructural development, digitalization, and economic reforms.
In the meantime, John Mahama is vying for reelection with a platform of social inclusion and economic relief, while the NDC criticizes the ruling party for economic problems such growing unemployment and inflation.
Other Presidential Contenders
There are twelve additional contenders for the presidency, but the two big parties continue to receive the most of the attention. These include delegates from smaller parties like Hassan Abdulai Ayariga (APC), Mohammed Frimpong (NDP), Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Kumankuma (CPP), Christian Kwabena Andrews (GUM), Kofi Akpaloo (LPG), Daniel Augustus Lartey (GCPP), and Christian Kwabena Andrews (GUM).
Additionally, four independent candidates—George Twum-Barima-Adu (), Kofi Koranteng (), Nana Kwame Bediako (), and Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen ()—bring a distinct dynamic to the contest by highlighting creative policy ideas meant to abolish the NPP and NDC duopoly.
Key Issues and Trends
This election revolves around several pressing issues:
1. Economic Hardship: Rising inflation, huge debt levels, and youth unemployment are just a few of the major issues Ghana’s economy has had to deal with. Restoring economic stability has been a key component of both main candidates’ campaigns.
2. Youth and Technology: As the number of young voters rises, social media, digital campaigns, and technology will be vital in determining the results.
3. Corruption and Governance: As voters call for more robust anti-corruption measures, transparency and accountability have emerged as major discussion issues.
Areas to Watch
1. Greater Accra and Central Regions: Frequently swing areas, these could decide how the presidential election turns out in the end.
2. Ashanti and Eastern Regions: Dr. Bawumia is anticipated to get resounding support in these traditional NPP strongholds.
3. Northern Regions and Volta: Mahama’s ability to unite his party’s traditional support will be put to the test in these NDC strongholds.
4. Western and Bono Regions: These areas may serve as crucial battlegrounds and have displayed erratic voting trends.
Electoral Preparedness
Ghanaians have been reassured by the Electoral Commission (EC), under the direction of Chairperson Jean Mensa, that all voting materials have been delivered to polling places across the country.
In a press briefing, Mr. Mensa stated, “We are all set to go,” reaffirming the commission’s dedication to free, fair, and credible elections. The world observes a country praised for its democratic maturity as Ghanaians get ready to cast their ballots.
Will Dr Bawumia secure a historic first-term victory for the NPP, or will John Mahama reclaim power for the NDC?
Source: myjoyonline.com