Ghana’s upcoming presidential election has taken a significant turn with former president John Dramani Mahama emerging as the frontrunner against ruling party candidate Muhamudu Bawumia in recent polling data. The December 7 contest, featuring thirteen candidates, will determine the successor to term-limited President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Recent surveys indicate Mahama leading with 52 percent support compared to Bawumia’s 41.3 percent. Voter priorities center on economic recovery, employment opportunities, educational advancement, and infrastructure development. Both leading candidates hail from northern Ghana, traditionally an opposition stronghold where ruling party influence has grown.
Mahama’s previous presidency focused heavily on infrastructure development but faced criticism over power shortages and economic instability. Meanwhile, Bawumia, an economist and former central banker, contends with Ghana’s recent economic crisis, including a $30 billion external debt default in 2022.
The nation, a major cocoa producer, currently operates under a $3 billion International Monetary Fund program initiated in 2023. Independent analysis suggests advantages for the opposition National Democratic Congress, citing the ruling party’s economic performance.
Political observers anticipate a closely contested election, potentially requiring a runoff vote. The outcome could mark a historic shift, as no party has maintained power beyond two consecutive terms in Ghana’s democratic history.