Ghana's new president, John Mahama, is expected to deliver on promises of economic recovery and strong anti-corruption measures after winning a landslide victory, as voters hope for immediate progress following years of hardship.
Former President Mahama Faces High Hopes as He Returns to Power in Ghana
Former President Mahama Faces High Hopes as He Returns to Power in Ghana
Following a decisive election victory, John Mahama is under pressure to swiftly address Ghana's economic turmoil and corruption issues upon his inauguration.
Ghana's former President John Mahama is set to make his grand return to office after winning a significant electoral victory by a margin of 15% against Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia. Mahama, who is taking the reins from outgoing President Nana Akufo Addo, faces immense expectations as the nation grapples with severe economic challenges and a public craving for swift reforms.
Winning 56.6% of votes, Mahama's historic comeback comes after eight years in opposition, during which he was seen as a master campaign strategist. His party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), also secured a strong parliamentary presence, with a total of 183 seats out of 276, just shy of the two-thirds majority needed for seamless legislative operations. However, due to unresolved discrepancies and ongoing court challenges regarding a few parliamentary seats, some hurdles remain.
Many Ghanaians stayed away from the polls in disappointment with the previous administration's performance, particularly within strongholds of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). For instance, Belinda Amuzu, a Tamale teacher, expressed her optimism for change, stating, “I'm expecting the new government to change the economy so that the hardship will come down.” Voter sentiment has shifted palpably due to an economic crisis that peaked in 2022.
President Akufo Addo has claimed he is handing over a recovered economy with substantial international reserves. However, opposition sources vehemently reject his assessment, attributing severe economic distress to the current administration's policies. Ghanaian economist Prof Godfred Bokpin warns that the challenges awaiting Mahama require "credible leadership" and efficient governance to pave the way for a promising future.
As part of his vision, Mahama intends to reduce the cabinet size significantly and appoint merit-driven leaders to ensure effective governance. His vice-presidential pick, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, marks a historic moment as Ghana's first female vice president. Analysts are optimistic about her capability to influence governance positively.
Having previously lost re-election in 2016 to Akufo Addo, Mahama's comeback has been fueled by public recognition of his development initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he now faces a daunting task of lowering a staggering unemployment rate, managing "nuisance taxes," and providing tax breaks to stimulate nighttime business activity.
Critics question whether Mahama can fulfill his ambitious promises, particularly after experiencing significant power crises during his previous term. Nevertheless, he intends to free up funds for social initiatives by renegotiating terms with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Corruption also looms large over Mahama’s potential second term, with lingering allegations from both his and the previous administration's tenure. Ghanaians are looking for stringent measures against corruption, which Mahama has pledged to take seriously.
Despite facing doubts, Mahama remains resolute in meeting the electorate's high expectations. As he prepares for his inauguration, he declares, “Expectations of Ghanaians are very high, and we cannot afford to disappoint them.” The challenges ahead are monumental, but the former president is prepared to lead Ghana anew towards recovery and growth.
