ACCRA, Ghana — As Joseph Antwi approaches his first-time voting experience this Saturday, he is filled with anticipation about choosing the next president of Ghana. However, he remains skeptical about whether the election results will alleviate the severe cost-of-living crisis currently facing the nation, one of West Africa’s economic leaders that has faced significant challenges in recent years, including soaring public debt, a declining local currency, and rampant inflation.
“I am eager to vote in hopes of removing the current government, which has not been supportive of the youth,” stated Antwi, who operates as a trader in Ghana’s capital, Accra. He criticized the administration of President Nana Addo Akufo-Addo for failing to fulfill its electoral commitments since coming to power eight years ago.
Antwi voiced concerns shared by many of the 18.7 million individuals registered to participate in the elections for both the presidency and Parliament, noting that options for candidates promising genuine change are limited.
Historically, Ghana’s presidential elections have revolved around two main contenders, and this election is no exception. While there are 12 candidates vying for the presidency, the contest appears to focus primarily on Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has grappled with the economic turmoil, and former President John Mahama, who leads the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
At their final campaign rallies on Thursday, both candidates attempted to convince voters that their party offers viable solutions to Ghana’s economic challenges. Bawumia, a former deputy central bank governor, promised to continue the outgoing government’s initiatives aimed at stabilizing the economy. “I have a clear plan for my presidency beginning on day one,” Bawumia, 61, assured enthusiastic supporters in Accra.
Conversely, Mahama emphasized his commitment to a national “reset” encompassing various sectors. “We must reset our democracy, governance, economy, finances, agriculture, infrastructure, environment, health sector, and everything we cherish as a nation,” the 65-year-old former leader reiterated.
The atmosphere in Accra remains charged with enthusiasm as political rallies unfold and campaign songs resonate through public spaces. However, amid economic difficulties, illegal gold mining, locally referred to as galamsey, has emerged as a pressing issue, leading to protests in recent weeks.
Although Ghana ranks as Africa’s leading gold producer and the sixth largest globally, illegal mining activities have surged as individuals seek better livelihoods, resulting in environmental damage and river pollution.
Voters are keenly focused on candidates who address unemployment and economic hardships, noted Lord Mawuko-Yevugah, a political economy professor at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration. Concerns have also been raised by opposition parties regarding potential electoral manipulation by the election commission favoring the ruling party, despite a lack of supporting evidence.
This situation has sparked apprehension in a nation regarded as a symbol of democratic ideals, especially as democratic stability is challenged across West Africa due to recent coups. “We consider transparency, responsiveness, and inclusiveness crucial for maintaining credible election processes,” stated Jean Mensa, head of the Ghanaian electoral commission. “We have proven our commitment to these principles in every aspect of our operations.”
