Ghana 2024 elections: Presidential campaign intensifies

Ghana is on the edge as the country gears up for its upcoming presidential elections on December 7th. The political landscape in Ghana has been tumultuous, with various incidents adding to the already heightened tensions. The recent standoff in Parliament, where the ruling NPP party lost its majority, has further complicated the political environment. Lawmakers defecting and becoming independents, leaving the NPP without a majority, has led to a deadlock in decision-making processes. This paralysis in Parliament has raised concerns about policy delays and potential non-payments, making the run-up to the elections even more intense. The Supreme Court's attempts to overturn the Speaker of Parliament's decisions have added another layer of complexity to the situation. As the elections draw near, the situation remains precarious, with the outcome uncertain amidst the political turmoil. Ghana, known for its democracy in Africa, is facing challenges that could test the country's democratic legacy. Despite the current political crisis, Ghana's state institutions have shown resilience, having experienced multiple electoral cycles and peaceful transitions of power. This resilience instills hope that regardless of the election results, Ghana will witness another orderly and smooth transition of power. The stability of Ghana's democratic institutions stands in contrast to other countries in the region that have experienced military interventions. Notably, the United States has issued warnings of potential sanctions on individuals undermining democratic principles in Ghana. The threat of sanctions underscores the importance of upholding human rights and democracy in the eyes of Ghana's key international partners, like the US. However, with the upcoming US elections in 2025, the enforcement of these sanctions remains uncertain. As Ghana approaches the polls, several factors could sway voter decisions. The prominent issues of the economy, jobs, education, and infrastructure are at the forefront of voters' minds. Ghana has grappled with a cost of living crisis, marked by high inflation and rising food prices. The economic challenges, including slow growth and high unemployment rates, have fueled voter dissatisfaction. Inflation has spiked to a four-month high of 22%, driven by soaring food prices, particularly staples like peppers. The impact of global gold prices, leading to increased illegal mining activities, has further strained Ghana's economy and environment. The government's perceived mismanagement of the gold sector has exacerbated the situation, affecting sectors like cocoa production and agriculture. The socio-economic indicators are shaping voter intent and will likely influence the outcome of the elections. With predictions favoring an NDC win for Mahama by various research entities, the race is heating up, promising a closely contested election. As Ghana navigates through these turbulent times, the world watches closely to see the outcome of the elections and the future trajectory of the country.