As Ghana’s December 7, 2024, election day approaches, the nation stands at a pivotal crossroads, preparing to choose between Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a country known for its democratic resilience within Africa, this election has come to symbolize not just a political choice but a referendum on the economic direction and national identity of Ghana.
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The two candidates embody distinctly different approaches, and the contest between them promises to shape the path the country takes for the foreseeable future.
With Ghana battling inflation, rising public debt, and socio-economic challenges, the outcomes of the election could alter its trajectory dramatically.
Ghanaians are looking to see which candidate will better address the nation’s most pressing issues, such as economic reform, youth unemployment, and infrastructure development.
This election, therefore, is more than a typical political contest; it is a critical juncture at which citizens must choose the leader they believe can navigate these complex challenges most effectively.
Bawumia’s Technological Push vs. Mahama’s Infrastructural Legacy
Mahamudu Bawumia has served as the face of the NPP’s economic strategy, particularly focusing on modernization and digitization.
A respected economist, Bawumia first rose to prominence as an economic advisor and later as Ghana’s Vice President, working to create a digital national identity system, mobile money interoperability, and e-tax platforms aimed at boosting efficiency and transparency in public service.
Under his influence, the government’s efforts toward digital innovation have positioned Ghana as a regional leader in tech-driven governance.
However, critics argue that Bawumia’s policies have not yet yielded the anticipated economic benefits, pointing to ongoing inflation and currency devaluation as evidence of his limitations in managing the nation’s economic health
John Dramani Mahama, by contrast, brings a legacy of infrastructure development and a commitment to national projects such as the Atuabo Gas Plant and extensive road networks.
Having previously led Ghana from 2012 to 2017, Mahama’s tenure is often remembered for its ambitious infrastructural agenda.
However, his administration faced criticism for the country’s fiscal struggles, leading to an IMF bailout in 2015.
Since then, Mahama has positioned himself as a champion of democratic values and a leader capable of restoring economic stability.
Despite his past controversies, Mahama’s supporters argue he has gained valuable experience and perspective since leaving office, which they believe will help him steer Ghana back toward stability
Economic Turbulence Dominates Public Concerns
For many Ghanaians, economic issues take center stage in this election. The country’s current challenges, including inflation rates reaching nearly 50% and a debt-to-GDP ratio of approximately 80%, have put immense pressure on citizens.
Essential goods have seen price spikes, while the Ghanaian cedi has depreciated significantly against the U.S. dollar, impacting everyday purchasing power and business operations.
Bawumia’s supporters claim that his policies of digitization and modernization are steps toward long-term stability, but skeptics argue they do little to ease the immediate economic pain felt by households across the country.
Meanwhile, Mahama has promised a return to policies that emphasize robust fiscal management and infrastructural investment. His supporters argue that his experience with Ghana’s financial struggles qualifies him uniquely to manage the economic crisis.
Mahama has also promised to re-negotiate the terms of Ghana’s IMF deal to prioritize social services and developmental spending, a move that resonates with many who feel left behind by the NPP’s policies.
A Tense and Polarized Atmosphere
In cities like Accra and Kumasi, campaign rallies have drawn thousands, with slogans, speeches, and songs capturing the intense competition between the NPP and NDC.
Public discourse is divided, with each camp passionately advocating for their candidate. Polling suggests a highly competitive race, with Mahama holding a slight edge due to dissatisfaction with the NPP’s handling of the economy.
However, Bawumia’s base, particularly in the NPP-stronghold regions of Ashanti and Eastern, remains resolute, hopeful that his policies will eventually deliver a stable economic environment.
Youth voters, who represent a substantial portion of the electorate, appear particularly engaged in this election.
High unemployment rates and underemployment have been significant issues for Ghana’s younger generations, and both Bawumia and Mahama have tailored messages to this demographic, promising to create job opportunities and support entrepreneurial ventures.
Social media has become a battleground, with spirited exchanges between the NPP and NDC supporters reflecting the electorate’s deeply rooted opinions and hopes for the future
National Preparedness: The Road to December 7
Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) has been working diligently to ensure a fair and transparent election process. New measures, including biometric voter registration and improved polling logistics, aim to minimize past challenges such as long wait times and inaccuracies in voter verification.
The EC has called on Ghanaians to participate actively, emphasizing that this election is a collective responsibility.
Civil society groups and international observers are also expected to monitor the election closely, particularly given the intense polarization and fears of potential unrest.
The security apparatus, too, is on high alert, with the police and military coordinating to prevent election-related violence.
With both NPP and NDC supporters passionate about their candidates, there is a heightened focus on peace education and conflict resolution efforts.
Religious leaders and community figures have joined calls for calm and unity, urging citizens to remember that the election should strengthen Ghana’s democratic values, not threaten its peace
Voices from the Ground: What Ghanaians Are Saying
The opinions among Ghanaians vary widely. Many express frustrations with the status quo, with economic hardships such as rising costs and limited job opportunities affecting their day-to-day lives.
In interviews conducted across Accra, some voters expressed disappointment in the NPP’s performance and voiced support for Mahama, seeing him as a leader who understands Ghana’s needs and challenges.
Others, however, believe that Bawumia’s policies of digital innovation lay the groundwork for sustainable growth and that he deserves an opportunity to complete what he has started.
Many first-time voters are particularly vocal, viewing this election as a chance to shape a future that addresses their concerns around employment, education, and quality of life.
Social media platforms have become outlets for these young voices, many of whom are undecided but eager for a leader who prioritizes tangible change and listens to their concerns.
Your Voice, Your Power!
“In this historic election, Ghana stands at a crossroad where the power of democracy lies in each citizen’s hands.
Whether your hope lies in Bawumia’s digital vision for a modern Ghana or in Mahama’s commitment to economic restoration, this is your chance to shape the nation’s destiny. Choose with intention, vote with conviction, and remember: the future of Ghana belongs to all of us.”
As Ghana approaches the December 7 election, Arabella Star Magazine encourages every Ghanaian voter to participate fully in this pivotal decision.
Your voice matters—take this opportunity to express your vision for the country’s future, grounded in peace, unity, and the collective strength of a thriving democracy.
Join your fellow citizens in choosing the leader you believe can bring prosperity, progress, and stability. Vote thoughtfully, and together, let’s pave the way for Ghana’s brighter future.