GHANA’S PRESIDENT-ELECT AND HOPE FOR AFRICAN DEMOCRACY
The West African country, popular for its gold, music, and diaspora community, is setting a pace as a nation committed to democratic principles. On Saturday, the 7th of December, 2024, John Dramani Mahama and his National Democratic Congress (NDC) emerged victorious. The former President of Ghana, who led the country from July 2012 to January 2017, made a remarkable comeback as the President-Elect after defeating the current Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia, and his New Patriotic Party.
Before the results were officially announced, Vice President Bawumia had already called Mahama to congratulate him on his emphatic victory. This act is remarkable and inspirational in a region where leaders are often known to cling to power and abuse executive authority. Conceding defeat and reaching out to political opponents is commendable.
John Mahama hails from Bole in the Savannah Region of Ghana. Born on Saturday, the 29th of November, 1958, he comes from a business and politically exposed family, with his father having served as a Regional Commissioner. Mahama holds a degree in History and a postgraduate degree in Communications. He spent years teaching history at the secondary school level before joining the Japanese Embassy in Accra as a Culture and Research Officer. He also has considerable legislative experience, having served as the representative of the Bole/Bamboi constituency for many years.
Factors That Tilted the Election in Mahama’s Favour
- Ghana’s Economic Problems
Ghana’s economy, once hailed as a beacon of hope in West Africa, has faced severe challenges in recent years. The cedi’s devaluation, high inflation, and the country’s debt burden became hot topics during the election. Many Ghanaians complained about the high cost of living. John Mahama criticized the ruling government’s handling of the economy and promised to implement reforms while prioritizing economic recovery. This resonated with voters who were eager for immediate solutions. - Corruption Messaging
Corruption has long been a contentious issue in Ghanaian politics. In this election, Mahama capitalized on public dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of accountability in government procurement and public spending. He promised to establish a dedicated anti-corruption office to scrutinize government contracts and ensure transparency. This proposal, alongside his calls to “cleanse the country of systemic corruption,” gave voters hope for a more accountable governance structure.
- The Youth Factor
Ghana’s youthful population played a decisive role in the election outcome. With nearly 60% of the population under 30, young voters became a formidable force. Mahama’s campaign focused on engaging the youth through innovative communication strategies and interactive town hall meetings. His promises to create jobs, improve education, and provide greater opportunities for young people resonated deeply with this demographic.
Mahama also utilized the social media space extensively, turning his campaign into a vibrant movement. He was seen as more relatable and approachable, and his policies directly addressed the aspirations of Ghana’s younger generation.
Challenges Ahead
Mahama’s previous tenure in office was marred by a failing economy, frequent power cuts, and corruption scandals. While he has rebranded himself as a reformist, these problems will require more than rhetoric to solve in a multicultural and diverse country like Ghana. The new President will have to address the nation’s challenges with tact and skill.
John Mahama will be sworn in on the 7th of January, 2025.
Ubong Usoro writes for the Nigeria Magazine
