ACCRA: In Ghana’s upcoming presidential election, the two leading candidates have introduced competing manifestos that pledge financial stability, job creation, and a route out of the country’s most severe economic downturn in recent memory.
On December 7, voters will cast their ballots to choose a successor to President Nana Akufo-Addo as he steps down after two terms leading the West African nation known for its gold, oil, and cocoa production.
The election will feature former president John Dramani Mahama of the main opposition National Democratic Congress party facing off against Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia of Akufo-Addo’s ruling New Patriotic Party—a notable economist and former central banker. Economic hardships have plagued Akufo-Addo’s presidency with Ghana defaulting on much of its $30 billion external debt in 2022 due to years of excessive borrowing compounded by global factors such as the pandemic and rise in interest rates.
Both Mahama and Bawumia unveiled their policy proposals over the weekend ahead of an anticipated close race between them despite other candidates also running. Mahama has pledged to eliminate first-year university fees to enhance tertiary education and reduce taxes within his first three months in office. Additionally, he vows to lead an aggressive campaign against corruption and recover misappropriated assets.
How do the candidates plan to make healthcare more affordable and accessible to all citizens in Ghana?
As the 2024 presidential elections in Ghana draw near, prospective candidates are beginning to outline their plans to address the various challenges facing the nation. One common theme among these candidates is the promise to alleviate the suffering experienced by many citizens. In this article, we will take a closer look at the pledges made by presidential hopefuls in Ghana to improve the lives of the people and bring about positive change.
The upcoming election has created a platform for both new and familiar faces in the political scene to articulate their visions for the country. Key among their promises is the commitment to address issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Let’s explore how these potential leaders plan to tackle these pressing concerns and make a difference in the lives of Ghanaians.
Fighting Poverty
One of the most pressing challenges in Ghana is the prevalence of poverty, particularly in rural areas. Many presidential hopefuls have outlined detailed strategies to alleviate poverty and improve the standard of living for citizens. These strategies include the following:
- Implementing sustainable development programs to create jobs and reduce unemployment.
- Strengthening social welfare programs to provide support for the most vulnerable members of society.
- Promoting entrepreneurship and small business development to stimulate economic growth and provide opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Improving Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare remains a significant concern for many Ghanaians. Presidential candidates have put forth various proposals to address this issue:
- Investing in the improvement and expansion of healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas.
- Implementing policies to make healthcare more affordable and accessible to all citizens.
- Prioritizing the training and recruitment of healthcare professionals to ensure adequate staffing in healthcare institutions.
Revitalizing Education
Education is widely recognized as a fundamental tool for societal advancement. Several presidential contenders have expressed their commitment to enhancing the educational system in Ghana through the following initiatives:
- Increasing the allocation of resources to improve school infrastructure and provide essential learning materials.
- Addressing the issue of teacher shortages and improving the quality of education through better training and professional development.
- Expanding access to higher education and vocational training to equip citizens with the skills needed to thrive in the workforce.
Infrastructure Development
The state of infrastructure in Ghana, particularly transportation and energy, has been a focal point for many prospective leaders. The following are some of the proposed strategies to address this critical area:
- Investing in the development of road networks and transportation systems to facilitate the movement of goods and people.
- Expanding access to reliable and affordable energy by investing in renewable energy sources and improving the national grid.
- Modernizing urban areas and promoting sustainable urban development to accommodate the growing population and improve living standards.
Key Takeaways
The promises made by presidential hopefuls in Ghana offer a glimpse of the potential changes that could be implemented to alleviate the suffering experienced by citizens. It’s important to note that while these promises are promising, they are subject to the practical implementation of these plans. When evaluating the pledges made by candidates, voters should consider the feasibility and sustainability of these proposals.
The upcoming elections present an opportunity for Ghanaians to carefully assess the candidates’ platforms and make informed decisions about the future leadership of the country. While promises are easy to make, it will be essential to hold the elected leader accountable for delivering on their commitments.
the pledges made by presidential hopefuls in Ghana to alleviate suffering for citizens are a crucial part of the upcoming election discourse. By understanding these promises, voters can make informed choices that will shape the future of the nation. It’s imperative for citizens to actively engage with the political process, hold leaders accountable, and work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Ghana.
During his presidency from 2013-17, Mahama heavily invested in infrastructure but faced criticism for power shortages, economic instability, and allegations of state corruption. Though he was not directly accused of any wrongdoing himself. On the other hand NPP critics argue that corruption worsened under Akufo-Addo’s administration while denying these claims themselves.
Bawumia committed to simplifying the tax system by reducing ministers by nearly half along with public spending cuts equivalent to 3% of GDP. He also announced plans for digital training programs benefitting one million young people aimed at aiding their employment prospects during a press event held in Accra.
Both candidates originate from Northern Ghana – primarily considered an NDC stronghold though where NPP has shown growth over recent years.— Reuters