Ghanaians are heading to the polls today, 7th December 2024, to participate in what promises to be a pivotal and tightly contested general election.

This is the ninth election since the inception of Ghana's Fourth Republic, with over 18 million registered voters expected to cast their ballots to elect the next president and the members of the 275-seat Parliament.

The presidential race has primarily been framed as a duel between Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former President John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Both candidates have conducted vigorous campaigns, with pre-election polls suggesting a highly competitive race.

Presidential aspirants

A total of 12 candidates are contesting the presidency, including:

- **Dr Mahamudu Bawumia** – New Patriotic Party (NPP)

- **John Dramani Mahama** – National Democratic Congress (NDC)

- **Dr Hassan Ayariga** – All People’s Congress (APC)

- **Kofi Akpaloo** – Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG)

- **Henry Augustus Lartey** – Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP)

- **Christian Kwabena Andrews** – Ghana Union Movement

- **Mohammed Frimpong** – National Democratic Party

- **Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Kumankuma** – Convention People’s Party

- **Kofi Koranteng** – Independent

- **George Twum-Barima-Adu** – Independent

- **Nana Kwame Bediako** – Independent

- **Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen** – Independent

The Front-runners: Bawumia vs Mahama

This election is widely perceived as a showdown between Ghana’s two major political forces, with Dr Bawumia and Mr Mahama offering sharply contrasting visions for the country’s future.

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, serving as Vice President since 2017, has campaigned on the achievements of the NPP government, highlighting digital innovation, infrastructure expansion, and economic reforms. He is celebrated for championing policies that have modernised public services and enhanced financial inclusion.

In contrast, John Dramani Mahama, who served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017, seeks to reclaim the presidency.

His campaign focuses on rebuilding Ghana’s economy, addressing unemployment, and reducing social inequalities. Mahama’s platform also includes plans to tackle corruption and close critical infrastructure gaps.

As the nation prepares for this decisive day, the outcome will shape Ghana’s political future and reaffirm its status as a beacon of democracy in the region.