By Prince Pilgani Jimwang, Tunkus, Mikang LGA, Plateau State
As attention shifts from the U.S. Presidential election, where Republican candidate Donald Trump emerged as the 47th President, all eyes are now set on Ghana’s Presidential and Parliamentary elections, scheduled for December 7, 2024. With thirteen candidates vying for the nation’s top political seat, the battle is shaping up to be a fierce contest between Vice President Mahamadu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The NPP, led by Bawumia, is aiming to continue the legacy of President Nana Akufo-Addo, despite the country’s economic challenges. Meanwhile, Mahama, who narrowly missed the presidency in 2020, seeks a comeback, bolstered by support from various parties and candidates. Among the key contenders are Daniel Augustus Lartey Jnr of the Great Consolidation Political Party (GCPP), Akua Domkor of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), and others from smaller political factions.
Despite the number of candidates, the election appears to be a two-horse race between Bawumia and Mahama. This competition is particularly intriguing as both candidates hail from Northern Ghana, a region historically marginalized in terms of political infrastructure development. This commonality could be a significant factor in the election, with both candidates needing to address the concerns of the youth and disadvantaged regions.
For Bawumia, the challenge lies in overcoming the public’s disillusionment with the current administration, particularly the controversial National Cathedral project, which has attracted significant criticism. The massive investment of $58 million without visible progress on the project has fueled discontent, especially among the youth, who are critical of the ruling party’s management of public funds. Bawumia, who heads the Economic Management Team, also faces criticism for policies perceived as detrimental to the public. The NPP, however, will rely heavily on the power of incumbency to maintain its hold on the presidency.
Meanwhile, Mahama’s NDC has been strategically building its campaign around community engagement, with a key policy focus on a “24-hour economy” aimed at boosting the country’s economic output. Mahama, running for a third term, will need to address the power crises and the closure of schools during his previous tenure, which remain contentious issues. Nevertheless, he enjoys significant support from Ghana’s Gen-Z population, which could give him an edge if effectively mobilized.
The choice of running mates will also play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Bawumia’s selection of Mathew Opuku Prempeh, the current Energy Minister, from the Ashanti Region, is a strategic move to solidify support in a key electoral region. Mahama, on the other hand, has chosen Prof. Jane Nana Opoku Agyemang, a former Education Minister, who was also his running mate in 2020. This decision is likely to appeal to the Central Region and the women’s vote.
With less than a month to go, the political atmosphere in Ghana is charged with intense campaigning and community outreach efforts from both parties. The election remains issue-based, with constructive discussions on policies rather than violent rhetoric. The election commission, headed by Jean Mensah, is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and credibility as the nation heads to the polls.
As Ghana prepares for one of the most pivotal elections in its history, the global community will be watching closely to see how the West African nation navigates these political intricacies and whether the December 7 elections will continue Ghana’s tradition of democratic stability.
