Fava Nunu, BBC's correspondent in Accra, and Lydia Foson, an award-winning Ghanaian actress and social media influencer, dive into the heated political climate ahead of Ghana's elections. They discuss how economic struggles, including high inflation and unemployment, are influencing voter sentiment. The guests highlight contrasting strategies from presidential candidates and the critical need for youth engagement in politics. With a nation on edge, every vote carries immense weight as Ghanaians seek a path toward recovery.
Ghana's upcoming elections are pivotal, with candidates Mahamudu Bawumia and John Mahama offering contrasting approaches to tackle the country's severe economic crisis.
Voter concerns encompass youth unemployment and environmental degradation, highlighting a demand for candidates to present actionable plans to improve living conditions.
Deep dives
Overview of Ghana's Economic Challenges
Ghana is currently facing significant economic turmoil, marked by high inflation and rising unemployment, which have left many citizens struggling to afford basic necessities. The government’s request for a bailout from the International Monetary Fund has sparked criticism regarding economic mismanagement, as the country recorded a $5 billion loss the previous year. These economic hardships are compounded by the negative effects of illegal gold mining, which has led to the degradation of vital water resources. As the country approaches its 2024 elections, addressing these challenges will be a top priority for the candidates vying for president.
The Key Candidates and Their Visions
The election features a tight race between two major candidates: the current Vice President Mahamadou Bahoumiya and former President John Mahama. Bahoumiya, running for the New Patriotic Party, emphasizes his economic expertise and promises stability, although his critics hold him accountable for the ongoing issues given his role in the current administration. In contrast, Mahama campaigns for a reset of the economy, leveraging his past governance experience but facing scrutiny from voters who remember the challenges of his previous term. Each candidate presents distinct visions for Ghana's recovery, making the election a critical decision point for voters.
Voter Concerns and Expectations
Public sentiment around the election reveals deep concerns about youth unemployment, environmental degradation from illegal mining, and human rights issues, particularly related to the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community. Many voters express frustration over the high cost of living and the perceived negligence of leaders, with young individuals becoming increasingly politically aware and vocal about their rights. Candidates are being pressed to provide clear plans addressing these pressing issues, and voters desire tangible commitments on how to revitalize the economy and ensure sustainable development. The results of the upcoming election will shape not only immediate political dynamics but also the long-term future of Ghana's younger generations.
This week campaigning in Ghana comes to an end as candidates make their final arguments in an election where every vote counts.
For most people, Ghana’s economic turmoil has been at the top of concerns.
In 2022 the Central Bank lost $5 billion in one year. The government asked the International Monetary Fund for a bailout and there have been accusations that the economy has been mismanaged
High inflation has left many unable to afford basic goods, levels of unemployment are rising and hundreds of thousands of people have been pushed into poverty.
So the next government will have the daunting task of easing hardship for millions and getting the economy back on its feet.
In today’s Africa Daily, Alan Kasujja will be looking at what’s gone wrong and how the two main presidential candidates- Mahamudu Bawumia and John Mahama- plan to fix it.
There will be a lot more on Ghana’s elections from our sister programme Newsday. James Copnall will be broadcasting live from the capital Accra on Friday morning- the day before polls open.
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