As Ghana gears up for its December 7, 2024, elections, the country remains divided over economic challenges and leadership choices.
Prominent institutions such as the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) and Fitch Solutions have projected a win for John Dramani Mahama, citing economic hardships and declining living standards under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, as reported by Tigpost on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
These concerns have been a cornerstone of Mahama’s campaign, which emphasizes the need for change. However, not all voters share this sentiment.
In a video trending on X (formerly Twitter), a trader at Bantama Market passionately defended the NPP and its presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
She dismissed Mahama’s claims of widespread economic hardship, accusing him of “selling Ghana’s port to a private group under a 35-year deal,” which she claims led to increased port fees.
“As for me, I don’t see any hardship in the country,” the trader declared. She went on to praise the Akufo-Addo-led government for its flagship Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, a major factor influencing her vote.
Explaining her position, she said, “Why would I vote for John Dramani Mahama when Nana Addo and Bawumia are in the race? Even if Akufo-Addo had done nothing else, the Free SHS policy alone is enough for me to vote for them again.”
As an illiterate, she emphasized the value of education for her children, stating, “What matters to me is seeing my children educated and not rearing chicks.”
Her endorsement of Bawumia highlights the varied perspectives among Ghanaians as the elections draw closer, with some voters placing more weight on policies like Free SHS over broader economic criticisms.
The video has since sparked conversations online, reflecting the nation’s polarized political climate.