Dec. 7 elections: Economy as a key concern for voters in Ghana

Ghana, once a thriving economic powerhouse in West Africa, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including mounting debt and a depreciating currency. In November, inflation reached 23 percent, marking its third consecutive month of increase.

Frustration over the country’s economic struggles is prompting many young Ghanaians to vote for the first time. According to the 2021 census, Ghana has a population of 31 million, with 35% under the age of 14 and 38% between the ages of 15 and 35.

“We need a leader who can address the core issues of our economy—unemployment, inflation, and the devaluation of the cedi. That’s why I’m voting this Saturday,” says student David Tapi.

Others share his sentiment, such as Anti, a trader in the capital, Accra: “I’m voting to remove the current government because they haven’t done enough for young people.”

Youth vote is key for political parties

With 18.7 million registered voters, political parties are keenly aware that securing the youth vote is crucial for victory.

“The demographics of Ghana show a predominantly young population, yet many are unemployed. Both main political parties understand this and are focusing on winning over these young voters,” says Lord Mawuko-Yevugah, a professor of Politics and International Relations at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration.

In this election, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party faces former President John Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress. At their final campaign rallies on Thursday, both candidates presented their parties as the solution to Ghana’s economic crisis.

Bawumia, a former central bank deputy governor, promised to continue stabilizing the economy based on the current administration’s efforts. “I know exactly what I want to do from day one as president,” he told supporters in Accra.

Mahama, meanwhile, pledged to “reset” the country, tackling challenges in democracy, governance, the economy, agriculture, infrastructure, and more. “We need to reset all that we hold dear as a people,” the 65-year-old former president stated.

Other economic challenges

Alongside the broader economic difficulties, illegal gold mining—locally known as galamsey—has become a growing issue. Ghana is Africa’s leading gold producer, but the rise of illegal mining, which contributes to environmental degradation and river pollution, has sparked protests in recent weeks as people seek better livelihoods.

A total of 12 candidates are running for president, but the election is expected to remain a two-horse race, as it has in previous years.

Ghana’s current President, Nana Akufo-Addo, won the 2016 election amid dissatisfaction with the ruling National Democratic Congress. His predecessor, John Dramani Mahama, had faced intense criticism over power shortages and corruption scandals. Now, Mahama is fighting for a political comeback, with many predicting he could secure a win.

However, regardless of the outcome, whoever takes office will face the daunting task of addressing Ghana’s economic crisis.