Ghana’s 2024 Presidential Elections: A clash of titans between the NPP and NDC

With just a few hours left for Ghana’s 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections, the political atmosphere is charged with anticipation. This election is set to be a defining moment for the nation for various reasons. One important thing to note is that it marks the eighth presidential race since the country’s return to multiparty democracy in 1992.

The two leading contenders, representing the country’s most dominant political parties—the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC)— have just concluded their final rallies, which interestingly, were held just a few kilometers away from each other in Accra.

NPP’s Candidate: Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia

Current Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the presidential candidate for the ruling NPP. As the first Muslim to lead the party into a presidential race, Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy represents a significant milestone for the NPP. A seasoned economist and technocrat, he has been a central figure in President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, spearheading initiatives like the Ghana Card, the digitalization of public services, and mobile money interoperability. All these achievements have earned him the nickname, “Alhaji digital.”

Throughout Dr Bawumia’s campaign, he has emphasized economic transformation through technology and industrialization. Another key message in his campaign is the success of the Free SHS scheme which was the party’s flagship policy in the last elections held in 2020. Dr Bawumia believes “It is possible” to turn the fortunes of Ghana around. However, his campaign has faced significant challenges tied to the current administration’s economic record, including high inflation, rising debt levels, and a controversial bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Dr Bawumia in consultation with the leaders of the NPP chose former Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) to be his running mate. This alliance with NAPO, a son of Manhyia has been described by many as a strategic one which is aimed at cementing the already existing bond between the NPP and the people of the Ashanti Region which has been described as the party’s stronghold for many years.

NDC’s Candidate: John Dramani Mahama

On the other side of the political coin is former President John Dramani Mahama, representing the NDC. This is his fourth presidential campaign, and he remains a polarizing yet formidable figure in Ghanaian politics. Mahama’s campaign is largely focused on what he describes as rescuing the country from the mismanagement of the NPP government. His flagship policies are the 24Hour Economy which he says is aimed at reducing youth unemployment and Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) where he promises to prosecute all state officials who have misappropriated state funds.

The former president is banking on his experience, emphasizing policies aimed at economic recovery, infrastructure development, and social welfare. His previous tenure as president (2012–2016) is both his greatest asset and liability; while he oversaw significant infrastructural projects, critics often highlight issues of corruption and inefficiency during his administration. This has become an albatross round his neck throughout his campaign, with many questioning his candidature. However, Mahama has pledged to learn from past mistakes and promises a more inclusive and transparent government if elected.

John Mahama also made a strategic move by choosing Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang as his running mate. Should the NDC win the elections, she would become the first female vice president of Ghana. This bold move was welcomed by all especially women’s groups who have always called for the inclusion of more women is governance and leadership positions.

The Road Ahead

With these major parties finally concluding their campaigns with massive rallies which drew massive crowds at their respective venues, it is difficult to say the winner of 7th December’s elections is glaring. For the NPP, who seek to “break the 8” with their first Northern leader and be elected for a 3rd consecutive term, this election is a very crucial one.

For the NDC, who seek former President Mahama’s reelection and setting a record for having Ghana’s first female president, this election represents a whirlwind of possibilities.

In all this, one thing remains clear, Ghanaians will not only vote based on party loyalty but also on who they believe can best address their immediate concerns. With the stakes so high, the 2024 presidential elections promise to be one of the most consequential in Ghana’s democratic history.

The countdown has begun, and all eyes are on December 7, 2024. Will Ghana chart a new course with Dr. Bawumia or return to familiar territory with Mahama? Only time will tell.