As Ghana prepares for its general election on Saturday, public dissatisfaction with the country’s economic struggles, including soaring prices and rising unemployment, is taking center stage. The upcoming election is set to test the nation’s democratic stability, with widespread frustration over economic hardship.
Support for President Nana Akufo-Addo and his ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has sharply declined during his second term, amid the worst economic crisis Ghana has faced in a generation. This includes mounting protests over the cost of living and challenges in key industries like cocoa and gold, which are vital to the country’s economy.
The mood has shifted significantly in favor of opposition leader John Dramani Mahama and his National Democratic Congress (NDC) party, with polls indicating strong backing for change, though public patience with the political system is waning.
“The country is ruined. I will vote, but I don’t think it will change anything,” said Emmanuel Kwaku Jr., an 18-year-old high school graduate voting for the first time.
An October survey by Afrobarometer revealed that 82% of Ghanaians believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, and less than half expect an improvement in the coming year.
“We have the trappings of democracy – elections every four years – but the benefits are limited,” said Abena Tekyiwaa Manuh, senior fellow at the Centre for Democratic Governance (CDD) in Accra. “That’s dangerous.”
Ghana’s commitment to a two-term presidency and relatively peaceful transitions of power has set it apart in a region that has recently seen a rise in coups and political instability.
However, the winner of this election will face mounting pressure to deliver on promises to improve the lives of citizens. If they fail, the growing disillusionment, particularly among the youth, could lead to further questioning of Ghana’s democratic system.
“There is a lot of anger and hopelessness among the youth, but also a desire for change. If that change doesn’t happen through the elections, what will happen next?” asked one Western diplomat, voicing concerns about the country’s future.
A “Tricky Phase” Ahead
Twelve candidates are competing for the presidency, with Mahama and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP emerging as the primary contenders. Both have pledged to address the nation’s economic turmoil, which has included inflation rates exceeding 50%, a $3 billion IMF bailout, and a major debt restructuring.
Polling stations will open at 0700 GMT and close at 1700. Results for the legislative elections are expected by early Monday, with presidential results due by Tuesday. However, trends in past elections suggest the outcome could be predicted sooner.
As tensions rise, there are concerns about the election period being a “tricky phase” due to low trust in institutions like the Electoral Commission. Mahama and the NDC have raised concerns about the commission’s ability to manage credible elections, citing alleged voter roll irregularities.
Bawumia and the NPP counter that these accusations suggest Mahama is preparing to reject the results if they are unfavorable.
“I don’t expect widespread violence, but it’s hard to be 100% sure,” said Jonas Claes, elections lead for the EU delegation in Ghana.
As Ghanaians head to the polls, the international community remains vigilant, watching closely for signs of unrest and the country’s ability to maintain its hard-earned democratic reputation.
