G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
Ghana’s political landscape has shifted dramatically as John Mahama, the nation’s former president, returned to power with a resounding victory in the December 2024 elections. Garnering 56.6% of the votes, Mahama achieved the most decisive electoral triumph in 24 years, defeating Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, who received 41.6%. Despite this victory, low voter turnout in some strongholds of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) highlighted a disenchanted electorate, reflecting frustration with the outgoing administration's inability to navigate the economic crisis.
Mahama’s campaign resonated with Ghanaians seeking change amidst "the hardship"—a phrase now emblematic of the severe cost-of-living crisis that has gripped the country since 2022. His promises to reduce cabinet size, address corruption, and create employment have fueled public hope for tangible reforms. Voters like Tamale resident Belinda Amuzu, a teacher, voiced expectations for economic transformation and the prosecution of corrupt officials, emphasizing the need for accountability to restore public trust.
The economic challenges awaiting Mahama are formidable. Ghana’s financial woes, exacerbated by reliance on a $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout, demand innovative governance. Mahama’s plans to renegotiate the bailout terms aim to free up resources for social interventions, focusing on alleviating poverty and stimulating job creation. However, critics, including economist Prof. Godfred Bokpin, express skepticism, highlighting the lack of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis for the proposed policies, such as abolishing certain taxes deemed burdensome by Ghanaians.
Mahama has pledged to abolish the electronic levy on mobile transactions and taxes on carbon emissions from vehicles, which have been widely criticized. Additionally, his vision for a "24-hour economy," involving night-time job creation and reduced electricity costs for businesses, has captured the imagination of many. Yet, lingering concerns remain about his ability to address the energy sector's inefficiencies, given the severe power outages during his previous administration, which earned him the nickname “Mr. Dumsor.”
A significant milestone in Ghana’s political history is the rise of Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, poised to become the country’s first female vice-president. Her appointment has been lauded as a testament to merit rather than tokenism, with political analysts emphasizing her robust track record. Together, Mahama and Opoku-Agyemang symbolize a leadership duo tasked with steering Ghana towards stability and growth.
Corruption remains a critical issue that Mahama must confront decisively. Allegations of graft have marred both his and the outgoing government’s tenures, from controversies involving military procurement during his first term to mismanagement under the NPP. Mahama’s proposal for special courts to expedite corruption cases underscores his commitment to addressing this systemic challenge.
The expectations placed on Mahama’s administration are immense. With 7.3 million Ghanaians living in poverty and unemployment nearing 15%, the incoming government faces a defining moment. While his experience as a former president equips him to navigate these challenges, Mahama acknowledges the urgency of his mandate. As he remarked in his victory speech, “Our best days are not behind us; our best days are ahead of us. Forward ever—backwards never.”
Ghana now watches closely, hoping for leadership that delivers on its promises and ushers in a new era of prosperity and accountability.
Comments