As Ghana approaches the December 7, 2024 elections, the political landscape is increasingly focused on economic recovery and environmental issues. Former President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, has been vocal about his plans to 'reset' what he describes as a 'damaged economy' under the Akufo-Addo administration. During a campaign event on September 29, 2024, Mahama promised to implement a 24-hour economy policy aimed at creating jobs and reducing the rising prices of essential commodities [847be938]. He emphasized his commitment to transparency and hard work for the benefit of all Ghanaians, following his campaign tour of four constituencies on September 27 [847be938].
In the context of the upcoming elections, Mahama has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's economic management, stating that Ghanaians would rate his performance an 'F' due to the current economic hardships [4d615eac]. Meanwhile, George Mireku Duker, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, launched the Miners4Bawumia group on September 20, 2024, urging miners to support Bawumia's campaign and combat illegal mining practices [d5e76e39]. Duker reassured miners that the government would not impose a total ban on small-scale mining, which he noted benefits over 5 million Ghanaians [d5e76e39].
Mahama's campaign is also addressing the pressing issue of illegal mining, or 'galamsey,' which has become a significant topic in the political discourse. He has called for the government to take responsibility for the economic challenges faced by citizens rather than shifting blame [4d615eac]. In response, Salam Mustapha, the National Youth Organizer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), defended the Bawumia-Napo ticket as a beacon of hope for the youth, highlighting job creation and economic stability under the current administration [87de1bc4].
As the elections draw near, the contrasting visions of Bawumia's integrity and problem-solving capabilities versus Mahama's proposed economic reforms will be pivotal in shaping voter sentiment. With Ghana navigating its 17th IMF program amidst significant debt challenges, the debates surrounding economic strategies and environmental policies will likely influence the overall electoral outcome [3362ec41].