Ghana's Presidential Race: Promises and Challenges

Ghana's presidential candidates have launched promises for fiscal stability and jobs ahead of the December 7 election. Voters will choose between ex-president John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, as President Nana Akufo-Addo steps down. The candidates' pledges include scrapping university fees and simplifying the tax system.

In the run-up to Ghana's pivotal presidential election, contenders have presented competing manifestos pledging fiscal stability, job creation, and a solution to the nation's severe economic crisis.

On December 7, voters will decide between former president John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, with current President Nana Akufo-Addo stepping down after his two terms. Ghana's history shows no party has secured more than two consecutive terms. The nation's economic downturn, exacerbated by overstretched borrowing, COVID-19, the Ukraine war, and rising global interest rates, looms large over the election.

Criticized for economic hardships, the government sought aid from the International Monetary Fund and is restructuring debt for a $3 billion package. Mahama promises to scrap first-year university fees and curb corruption, while Bawumia aims to streamline taxes, reduce ministerial posts, and offer digital training for youth employment.

(With inputs from agencies.)