18 Million Ghanaians Participate in Competive Elections

Former President John Mahama, representing the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), is seeking to reclaim his position as Ghanaians gear up to elect a successor to outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Mahama’s main rival is the current Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia from the ruling New Patriotic Party. Since 1992, these two political parties have been pivotal in Ghana’s governance.

Analysts indicate that the country’s economic recovery from its most serious crisis in a generation will play a crucial role in determining the election’s outcome. In light of critiques regarding his stewardship of the economy, particularly from Mahama, President Akufo-Addo has defended his tenure, asserting that Mahama also bears some accountability for the nation’s economic situation stemming from his time as vice president under President Atta Mills and later as president.

Ghana has experienced rising economic growth, yet it remains one of the most indebted nations.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Ghanaian Armed Forces has assured citizens that they are working alongside the police to maintain security during the elections, stressing that there will be “no military presence at polling stations.”

The Ghanaian government has announced the temporary closure of land borders in advance of the election, with plans to reopen them on December 8.