As Ghana prepares for its ninth general election since the return to multiparty politics in the early 1990s, citizens across the nation are expressing diverse opinions on the state of the economy, governance, and their hopes for the future. The elections, scheduled for December 7, 2024, will determine the successor to President Nana Akufo-Addo, who is completing his second and final term.
In interviews conducted by ‘In The Know’ medium, Ghanaians from different walks of life shared insights into their lived experiences and expectations for the upcoming polls.
A Story of Resilience in Aflao
Djibo Issa, a Nigerien-Ghanaian street merchant in Aflao, spoke about the struggles that have shaped his life. Formerly a shop owner, Issa recounted how a robbery devastated his livelihood and strained his family life. “My shop was burgled, and I couldn’t provide for my family. My wife eventually left me and even stole from me during a visit. Now, as a hawker, she wants to return, but I can’t accept that after her actions,” he lamented.
Despite these personal challenges, Issa praised Ghana for its inclusive atmosphere, which he compared favorably to his experiences in Nigeria and Niger. “Ghana is the best country in Africa for freedom and peace. I left Lagos in 2015 because of the political tension and lack of security. Here, I don’t face harassment or extortion as I did in Balogun, Lagos, where area boys demanded money to access my shop,” he said.
Issa also highlighted Ghana’s peaceful coexistence, contrasting it with his experiences in Nigeria, where political campaigns often ended in violence. “Ghana offers the freedom I’ve always sought,” he reiterated, adding his prayer for a leader who prioritizes humanity in the upcoming election.
Djibo Issa, a Nigerien-Ghanaian street merchant in Aflao
A Businessman’s Perspective from Accra
In Accra, businessman Martin Tsikumar expressed cautious optimism about Ghana’s governance, stating that the current administration is trying its best despite differing opinions among citizens. He pointed out a unique cultural aspect of Ghanaian elections—the focus on debates over campaign posters. “While there are some posters, most candidates prioritize engaging with citizens directly and presenting their manifestos. This approach reflects our preference for substance over spectacle,” Tsikumar said.
Economic Hardship in Aflao
Bus driver Nicholas Ntuga, who shuttles passengers between Ghana and Togo, painted a grim picture of the economic situation. He described widespread hunger and the difficulty of maintaining a balanced diet. “Take my meal today—corn porridge and a sausage roll. It’s not ideal for a healthy diet, but it’s all I can afford. Many Ghanaians are in the same boat,” he said, calling for urgent attention to the economic challenges facing ordinary citizens.
Bus driver Nicholas Ntuga, who shuttles passengers between Ghana and Togo
The Broader Context
Ghana’s population, now at 34.7 million, is projected to double by 2050, highlighting the need for strong governance to address growing economic and infrastructural demands. While the country boasts a reputation for peaceful elections and smooth transitions of power, the concerns raised by citizens underscore the importance of electing a leader capable of navigating these challenges.
As the December elections approach, the voices of ordinary Ghanaians like Issa, Tsikumar, and Ntuga serve as a reminder of the stakes involved—not just for Ghana but as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
