Vote counting begins in Ghana as new president awaits
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Vote counting has begun in Ghana following the country’s general election on Saturday, marking the beginning of a crucial process as the nation waits for the announcement of a new president. The election was largely peaceful, with the exception of a fatal shooting in the northern part of the country. Authorities reported that four men were arrested at a polling station in Nyankpala, after an opposition candidate attempted to file a complaint but was obstructed by supporters of the ruling party. In response to the unrest, soldiers were deployed to Nyankpala in armored vehicles to restore order.
Elsewhere, the election proceeded smoothly. Many Ghanaians lined up early in the morning to ensure they could cast their votes. Polling stations officially closed at 17:00 GMT, and the election results are expected to be announced by Tuesday. In a move considered unusual, Ghana’s land borders were closed until Sunday evening, adding an extra layer of security to the process.
This election marks the end of Nana Akufo-Addo’s presidency as he steps down after serving the maximum two terms. As a result, Ghana is guaranteed to elect a new leader. One of the main contenders is former President John Mahama, who is seeking a return to office with the National Democratic Congress (NDC). His primary opponent is expected to be Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). If Bawumia wins, he would make history as Ghana’s first Muslim president. Other candidates include businessman Nana Kwame Bediako, who is popular with young voters, and Alan Kyerematen, who left the NPP last year to run as an independent.
Almost 19 million Ghanaians are registered to vote, and the election includes races for members of parliament in 275 constituencies across the country. While Ghana has a rich tradition of democratic elections since the return to multi-party politics in 1992, the presidency has consistently been contested between candidates from the NDC or the NPP. No party has ever won more than two consecutive terms in power.
To win outright in the first round, a presidential candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote. If no candidate achieves this, the top two contenders will face off in a run-off, which is expected to take place by the end of December.
Among those voting for the first time was 18-year-old Serwaa Yeboah Joshebeth, who shared her thoughts with the BBC: “It is important for you to vote to choose the best for your country.” The recent graduate expressed hopes for more job opportunities, not only for herself but for others in need as well. Similarly, 95-year-old Kojo Yeboah, a retired university worker, emphasized the need for leadership focused on education and employment for the youth. Yeboah, who benefits from state stipends in his old age, also expressed his desire for the next leader to address these issues.
As the campaigns concluded on Friday, Vice President Bawumia made a statement highlighting the achievements of his administration, saying, “What is clear is that notwithstanding the challenges we’ve had, we have performed better than the government of John Dramani Mahama.” In response, Mahama told his supporters, “It is a choice between the Ghana we have today and the Ghana we want together—a Ghana of opportunity, prosperity, and justice for all.”
Inflation has been a significant issue for many Ghanaians in recent years, with the rate peaking at 54.1% in 2022. While it has since decreased, the economic impact has been severe, with many people falling into poverty and struggling with lower living standards. In addition, Ghana defaulted on its debt repayments in 2022 and is currently negotiating with international lenders to restructure its loans. High levels of unemployment, particularly among young people, have also contributed to the country’s economic difficulties. The youth vote is expected to play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the election.
In conclusion, Ghana’s general election has attracted significant attention as the country prepares to elect a new president. With Nana Akufo-Addo stepping down, key figures like John Mahama and Mahamudu Bawumia are vying for the top position. As votes are counted, the nation is watching closely to see how the next leader will address pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, and economic recovery. The outcome of this election will undoubtedly have lasting implications for Ghana’s future, particularly as it grapples with challenges in the post-pandemic global economy.
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