Ghana voted on Saturday in presidential and parliamentary elections amid hopes for economic recovery post-financial crisis. Former President John Mahama and current Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia are the main contenders. Polling proceeded largely peacefully, with positive voter turnout and anticipation of provisional results soon.
On Saturday, Ghana held its presidential and parliamentary elections, hoping for economic revitalization following a severe financial crisis that resulted in a significant debt default. Current President Nana Akufo-Addo will conclude his tenure next month, enabling twelve candidates to contend for succession. The lead candidates are Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) nominee, and former President John Dramani Mahama from the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Former President Mahama, aiming for a comeback after his presidency from 2012 to 2016, has criticized Bawumia for perpetuating policies that contributed to the nation’s economic difficulties. He has vowed to renegotiate the terms of a $3 billion International Monetary Fund bailout secured last year. Mahama expressed his confidence in a favorable election outcome, stating, “This is the only election that we can all see the direction of the outcome before we start voting. We are hopeful and confident that we’ll win.”
In contrast, Vice President Bawumia also exuded confidence after casting his vote, emphasizing the achievements of his administration and the signs of economic recovery, which included a reported 6.9% growth in the second quarter of 2024—the fastest in five years. He stated, “By the grace of God, I’m very hopeful of winning this election. I think that we have done a lot of work.”
Voting went largely smoothly across Ghana, with jubilant NDC supporters celebrating in Accra, signaling their party’s early successes at polling stations. The Electoral Commission reported that over 99% of polling stations opened on time. However, it acknowledged isolated incidents of violence, which regrettably resulted in one fatality. The voter turnout was reportedly significant, although exact figures were not disclosed immediately after polling concluded.
Following the closure of the polls at 1700 GMT, the ballot tally commenced under the observation of party agents, with provisional results anticipated by late Saturday into Sunday and the presidential results expected by the upcoming Tuesday. Approximately 18.7 million of Ghana’s population of 34 million are registered to vote in this critical election.
Ghana is currently navigating the aftermath of a substantial financial crisis characterized by unprecedented debt challenges, which necessitated seeking assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The political landscape is particularly dynamic as President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has reached the term limits stipulated by the constitution, prepares to exit office. This election is crucial for the future direction of Ghana’s economic policies and governance, with major parties vying to reshape the nation’s financial recovery and stability.
The elections in Ghana signify not only a critical political transition but also a pivotal moment for the nation’s economic future. As candidates campaign on contrasting platforms regarding the management of the economy and recovery strategies, the outcome will likely influence Ghana’s trajectory in the coming years. With a significant voter turnout, the process proceeded with minimal disturbances, indicating a robust democratic response to the pressing challenges facing the nation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
