Ghana Votes for a New President Amid Economic Challenges
Ghanaians are heading to the polls today, Saturday, to choose a new president and members of parliament. The results are expected to be announced by Tuesday, according to the BBC.
This election is happening as Ghana faces tough times with rising costs of living and a debt crisis. Many voters are focused on the economy and how the next leader can improve their daily lives, the BBC reports.
Outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo is stepping down after completing the maximum two terms. The country will have a new leader, but it could be a familiar face if John Mahama, a former president, wins for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
BBC highlights that Mahama is running against Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, who represents the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP). If Bawumia wins, he will make history as Ghana’s first Muslim president.
Other candidates in the race include Nana Kwame Bediako, a businessman who appeals to young voters, and Alan Kyerematen, who left the NPP last year to run as an independent. Nearly 19 million Ghanaians are registered to vote, the BBC confirms.
Women are underrepresented in the presidential race. Only one woman, Nana Akosua Sarpong Frimpomaa of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), is running for president.
BBC notes that another female candidate, Akua Donkor of the Ghana Freedom Party, passed away in October, but her name is still on the ballot due to complications in replacing her.
Since multi-party elections started in 1992, only two parties—the NDC and NPP—have ever won the presidency. Neither party has managed to hold power for more than two consecutive terms. This makes the outcome of this election even more unpredictable, as noted by BBC.
Polling stations are open from 07:00 to 17:00 GMT, giving voters a 10-hour window to cast their votes. To win in the first round, a candidate must secure over 50% of the votes. If no one achieves this, the two candidates with the highest votes will face a run-off by the end of December.
Inflation and unemployment are major concerns in this election. BBC highlights that inflation reached a record 54.1% in 2022, pushing many Ghanaians into poverty. Unemployment remains high, especially among the youth, who could greatly influence the election’s outcome.
Campaigns ended on Friday with strong messages from the leading candidates. Vice-President Bawumia argued that his government has performed better than Mahama’s previous administration.
On the other hand, Mahama told his supporters this election is about choosing between the current struggles and a future of opportunity, prosperity, and fairness for all.
As the BBC explains, Ghana is at a crossroads, and this election could set the tone for addressing its economic troubles and restoring hope for many citizens.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gwzgvpe04o