According to Paul Adom-Otchere, a renowned Ghanaian journalist and political analyst, the 2024 general elections in Ghana will be a tightly contested race between John Dramani Mahama, and the incumbent Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. In an interview with City News, Adom-Otchere asserted that if both candidates engage in intense campaigning, Alan Kyerematen, the Trade and Industry Minister and a potential third candidate, may not be recognized.
Adom-Otchere's analysis is based on the current political landscape in Ghana, where the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the rulling New Patriotic Party (NPP) have both been weakened by internal conflicts and public discontent. The NPP, in particular, has been plagued by infighting and a perceived lack of leadership, which has led to a decline in its popularity and a loss of some of its traditional supporters.
The NPP has been struggling to maintain its momentum after winning the 2016 elections, with some party members and supporters expressing dissatisfaction with the government's performance. The party's inability to address some of the country's pressing issues, such as high levels of corruption and a sluggish economy, has also eroded its support base.
In this context, Adom-Otchere argues that the 2024 elections will be a battle for the soul of Ghana, with the NDC and NPP both seeking to win back the trust and confidence of the electorate. He believes that the election will be decided by the performance of the two main candidates, Mahama and Bawumia, and their ability to articulate a compelling vision for the future of Ghana.
Mahama, who is seeking to reclaim the presidency he lost in 2016, has been campaigning on a platform of social justice and economic development. He has promised to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment, and has emphasized the need for greater investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Bawumia, on the other hand, has been highlighting the NPP's achievements in governance and economic management, and has promised to continue the party's policies of fiscal discipline and private sector-led growth. He has also emphasized the need for a strong and stable economy to create jobs and improve living standards.
Adom-Otchere believes that the election will be a close contest, with both candidates having their strengths and weaknesses. He notes that Mahama has a strong track record of delivering on his campaign promises, but has been criticized for his perceived lack of leadership and his inability to address some of the country's pressing issues. Bawumia, on the other hand, has been praised for his economic management skills, but has been criticized for his perceived lack of experience in governance and his inability to connect with ordinary Ghanaians.
In conclusion, the 2024 general elections in Ghana are shaping up to be a highly competitive and unpredictable race, with the outcome likely to be determined by the performance of the two main candidates, Mahama and Bawumia. While both candidates have their strengths and weaknesses, the election will ultimately be decided by the electorate's assessment of their leadership qualities, policy proposals, and vision for the future of Ghana.