ACCRA, Ghana — On Saturday, the people of Ghana will go to the polls to participate in a general election that serves as a crucial examination of democracy in a region grappling with the threats of extremist violence and political coups.
Approximately 18.7 million voters are registered for the presidential and legislative elections, yet the two primary candidates seem to offer minimal prospects for meaningful change. Historically regarded as a model of democracy in West Africa, Ghana has recently encountered significant economic challenges, including soaring inflation and rising unemployment.
As coups increasingly threaten democratic institutions across western Africa, Ghana has remained a symbol of democratic consistency, having a commendable track record of peaceful elections. The nation once thrived economically, showcasing its development successes. However, public sentiment has shifted, with a recent Afrobarometer poll indicating that 82% of Ghanaians believe the country is on the wrong path.
Though a total of 12 candidates are vying for the presidency, Saturday’s election has largely boiled down to a contest between two primary contenders, as seen in previous elections since the revival of multiparty democracy in 1992. The incumbent Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP), faces off against former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Bawumia’s administration has struggled to address the ongoing economic crisis, while Mahama, ousted in 2016 for failing to fulfill economic promises, seeks a return to power.
The NDC identifies as a social democratic party, whereas the NPP positions itself more to the right. Nevertheless, analysts and voters have pointed out that the candidates’ proposed policies are not drastically different from one another.
In addition to the presidential election, 276 parliamentary seats will be contested. Both the ruling NPP and the main opposition NDC currently hold 137 seats each in the 275-member legislature, with one independent member generally aligning with the ruling party. This election marks the addition of one more constituency.
During their final campaign events on Thursday, both candidates intensified efforts to present their parties as the solution to Ghana’s economic challenges. Bawumia, 61, who has a background as an economist and served as the deputy governor of the central bank, pledged to continue the work of the current administration and stabilize the economy.
Conversely, Mahama, 65, emphasized his commitment to “reset” various aspects of the country, stating that it’s necessary to refresh democracy, governance, economy, and health sectors among others, reflecting what Ghanaians value.
Throughout Accra, the atmosphere leading up to the election has been vibrant, characterized by colorful posters, billboards, lively street performances by bikers, political rallies, and election-themed music resonating from speakers.
However, underlying concerns persist regarding the key issue at stake: the nation’s struggling economy, which faces numerous hurdles. Ghana defaulted on most foreign debts last year as the situation worsened, leading to skyrocketing prices for fuel, food, and essential goods. The inflation rate peaked at 54% by the end of last year, and although the rate has begun to decline, many citizens still feel the burden when they shop.
Additionally, the rampant issue of illegal gold mining, locally referred to as galamsey, has become a significant topic in the campaign, raising worries among voters and prompting protests aimed at the ruling government. Ghana holds the title of Africa’s leading gold producer and ranks as the sixth largest globally; however, illegal mining has proliferated as increasing numbers of people seek employment in a faltering economy. This illicit activity has led to environmental degradation, polluting rivers and other natural resources, despite government efforts to combat the issue.