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0 Today, December 7, 2024, Ghanaians are heading to the polls in what many are describing as one of the most consequential elections in recent history. With economic challenges, social disparities, and pressing national issues at the forefront, voters have a crucial decision to make. The election is poised to shape Ghana’s trajectory for the next four years, as contenders pitch their visions for a brighter future.
Key Contenders: A crowded field with distinct visions
John Dramani Mahama (National Democratic Congress – NDC):
The former president seeks a return to power, offering a message of economic recovery and social equity. Mahama has focused his campaign on resetting Ghana and issues like renegotiating the IMF bailout to create fiscal space for developmental initiatives.
His manifesto emphasizes infrastructure development, job creation for the youth, and intensifying efforts to combat corruption.
Mahamudu Bawumia (New Patriotic Party – NPP):
The current Vice President is the NPP’s candidate, running on a record of economic stability and digitization efforts.
Bawumia touts achievements like improved access to mobile money and digitized public services, while promising to tackle inflation and expand industrial growth. His campaign highlights continuity of Free SHS and further deepening economic reforms.
Alan Kyerematen (Independent):
The former Trade Minister, now running independently after breaking from the NPP, positions himself as a unifying figure with a focus on industrialization. Kyerematen’s “Great Transformational Plan” promises to industrialize the agricultural sector and create sustainable jobs, especially for the youth and women.
Nana Kwame Bediako (Independent):
Business mogul Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as “Cheddar,” enters the race as a fresh face in Ghanaian politics. With a reputation for philanthropy and entrepreneurship, his campaign promises a business-driven approach to governance. Bediako pledges to tackle youth unemployment by fostering entrepreneurship, modernizing education, and leveraging Ghana’s vast natural resources for economic empowerment.
Key issues driving the election for the voters and candidates
Economic Recovery
Ghana’s economy is recovering from one of its worst downturns in decades.
Soaring inflation, a devalued currency, and high public debt remain top concerns. Voters are keen to see policies that can stabilize the cedi, create jobs, and ensure fiscal discipline.
Youth Unemployment
With a rapidly growing youth population, unemployment continues to be a pressing issue. Candidates have outlined various strategies, from industrialization and job creation to promoting entrepreneurship as a path to self-reliance.
Illegal Mining (Galamsey)
The detrimental effects of illegal gold mining on the environment and communities have been a heated topic throughout the campaign.
Candidates are pledging stricter enforcement of laws and offering alternative livelihoods for those involved.
Corruption and Governance
Corruption remains a sore point, with many Ghanaians demanding stronger accountability. Candidates are proposing measures like independent anti-corruption bodies and stricter penalties for offenders to restore public trust in governance.
Peace and Security
With 7,250 identified flashpoints across the country, ensuring a peaceful election is a major concern.
Regions such as Ashanti, Central, and Greater Accra, which have historically seen tensions, are under heavy security surveillance.
Areas to Watch: Swing zones and flashpoints
Swing Constituencies: Key constituencies like Ayawaso West Wuogon, Ledzokuku, and Tarkwa Nsuaem are expected to play a pivotal role. Historically fluctuating between parties, these areas could determine the balance of power in parliament.
Flashpoints for Electoral Security: Sene West and Banda, constituencies decided by razor-thin margins in 2020, are once again under intense scrutiny. Security forces have been heavily deployed to mitigate any potential disputes.
Resource-Rich Regions: The Western and Ashanti regions, heavily impacted by galamsey, remain focal points. Candidates’ strategies to address illegal mining are expected to influence voter decisions in these areas.
Youth-Dominated Urban Centers: Urban areas like Accra and Kumasi, home to a significant number of young voters, are critical. Their turnout and preferences could sway both the presidential and parliamentary races.
This election represents a crossroad for Ghana, with voters deciding between continuity, reform, or a fresh start.
With Nana Kwame Bediako entering the political fray, the contest has taken on new dimensions, challenging traditional party dominance. His promise of a business-driven governance style resonates with young, aspirational voters seeking a break from the status quo.
Expectations are also high for Alan Kyeremanten with the question of how his breakaway would affect the NPP votes in their stronghold lingering on the minds of many.
The post Ghana Election 2024: Meet the front-runners, the key issues and which constituencies are critical first appeared on 3News.
