Today, December 7, 2024, Ghanaians are voting in a pivotal election to choose the country’s next president and representatives for the 275-member Parliament. This marks the ninth general election under Ghana’s Fourth Republic, with over 18 million registered voters participating.
A Tight Presidential Race
The presidential contest is led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former President John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Intense campaigns by both candidates have set the stage for a closely contested election.
The Presidential Candidates
A total of 12 candidates are vying for the presidency:
- Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – New Patriotic Party (NPP)
- John Dramani Mahama – National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Dr. Hassan Ayariga – All People’s Congress (APC)
- Kofi Akpaloo – Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG)
- Henry Augustus Lartey – Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP)
- Christian Kwabena Andrews – Ghana Union Movement
- Mohammed Frimpong – National Democratic Party
- Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Kumankuma – Convention People’s Party
- Kofi Koranteng – Independent
- George Twum-Barima-Adu – Independent
- Nana Kwame Bediako – Independent
- Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen – Independent
Spotlight on the Front-runners
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
As Vice President since 2017, Bawumia has focused his campaign on the NPP’s achievements in digitalization, infrastructure, and economic reforms. He is credited with modernizing government services and improving financial inclusion.
John Dramani Mahama
Mahama, who served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017, aims to return to power with promises to revitalize the economy, create jobs, and reduce inequality. His campaign emphasizes infrastructure development and combating corruption.
Economic Issues Take Center Stage
This election unfolds amidst pressing economic challenges, including high inflation, unemployment, and mounting public debt. Mahama has criticized the government’s handling of the economy, while Bawumia defends the administration’s efforts to stabilize the situation amidst global pressures.
Election Preparations
The Electoral Commission (EC) has implemented measures to ensure a free and fair election, including electronic result transmission. Security has been heightened nationwide, with land borders temporarily closed to prevent disruptions.
Polling stations opened at 7:00 AM and will close at 5:00 PM, with results expected within 48 hours.
Profiles of the Front-runners
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
An economist with degrees from Buckingham University, Oxford, and Simon Fraser University, Bawumia has an extensive background in academia, banking, and governance.
John Dramani Mahama
A seasoned politician with a history degree from the University of Ghana and postgraduate studies in communication, Mahama has served as a parliamentarian, minister, vice president, and president.
The Stakes
This election will shape Ghana’s political and economic trajectory for years to come. The outcome will determine whether the NPP continues its governance under Bawumia or the NDC regains leadership with Mahama at the helm. As the polls proceed, Ghana’s reputation for peaceful and credible elections remains in the global spotlight.