In a vibrant display of drums, horns, and motorbikes, Ghana’s ruling party and opposition candidates gathered thousands of supporters on Thursday to wrap up their campaigns ahead of Saturday’s crucial presidential election.
The race has come down to a fierce battle between the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flag-bearer, former President John Mahama, who is seeking a return to power.
Ghana, long regarded as a beacon of democratic stability in West Africa, is now facing a tough economic reality marked by inflation, a struggling currency, and a recent debt crisis. Bawumia, a former central bank official, presented his government’s achievements in education, health, food security, and digitalisation. His “Break the 8” slogan aims to secure an unprecedented third term for the NPP, building on the legacy of President Nana Akufo-Addo.
However, Bawumia’s ties to Akufo-Addo’s economic management have led to criticism, with many voters concerned about the rising cost of living. Inflation has decreased from 54% to 23%, but economic challenges remain a significant issue.
On the other side, Mahama, who served as president from 2012 to 2017, is framing the election as a chance to “Reset Ghana Right.” He points to the current economic struggles as evidence that Bawumia’s team has failed to manage the country effectively. While Mahama’s tenure was marred by power blackouts, he argues that his experience offers a better path forward, claiming the time for change is now.
With both candidates hailing from northern Ghana, traditionally an NDC stronghold, the northern region and the capital area of Greater Accra will be key battlegrounds in Saturday’s vote.
As Ghana prepares for its next leader, the country’s future is also shaped by growing security concerns in the region, particularly the threat of terrorist violence spilling over from Burkina Faso and Niger. Additionally, illegal gold mining, which has caused environmental damage, remains a hot topic for voters, despite promises from the government to tackle the issue.
With results expected on Tuesday, the election is shaping up to be a defining moment for Ghana’s future as it navigates its economic challenges and regional instability.
