Ghana's Mahama Faces High Expectations Amid Economic Challenges

John Mahama, who recently regained the presidency of Ghana, faces immense pressure to meet voter expectations for economic reforms and transparency in government. As he prepares to lead amidst a cost-of-living crisis, he has committed to job creation, reducing taxes, and addressing corruption, but challenges remain.

Ghana's recent election has resulted in a significant shift in leadership, with former President John Mahama returning to power after an eight-year hiatus. Mahama’s commanding victory over Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, securing 56.6% of votes, has sparked high hopes among Ghanaians for economic renewal and addressing long-standing issues of corruption.

However, voter turnout was lower than in the previous 2020 elections, especially in regions historically supportive of Bawumia’s New Patriotic Party (NPP), indicating a degree of voter discontent with the past government's performance. After a bitter period of economic downturn marking 2022, resulting in vast public dissatisfaction, Mahama's return has reignited hopes for change.

Belinda Amuzu, a teacher in Tamale, one of Mahama’s strongholds, expressed the collective desire among citizens for effective economic reforms and accountability for corruption. "I’m expecting the new government to change the economy, so that the hardship will come down," she remarked, highlighting the significance of alleviating financial strains faced by many Ghanaians.

The challenges awaiting Mahama's administration are significant; Ghana currently grapples with an unemployment rate close to 15% and a rising cost of living. Analysts emphasize the urgent need for efficient governance, with economist Prof Godfred Bokpin stressing, "Without credible leadership, there cannot be a future."

Mahama has promised to reduce his cabinet size from over 80 ministers to 60, an intention that some experts argue should be further reduced to foster efficiency. He will also introduce Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as the country’s first female vice-president, a move welcomed as a step towards inclusive leadership.

While Mahama’s past performance—as a builder of infrastructure—was once critiqued, shifting perspectives during the pandemic have raised appreciation for the groundwork laid during his prior term. Hence, his re-election presents him with the unique task of restoring the nation's faith in governance and the economy alike.

His campaign has been marked by pledges to create jobs and eliminate "nuisance taxes," a term used for burdensome levies that the public finds excessive. Critics, however, remain doubtful about the feasibility of such promises, citing previous failures in the power sector during his last presidency. Additionally, Mahama’s administration will need to navigate the complexities of an IMF loan that requires judicious financial management.

Amidst all this, tackling corruption remains an urgent priority. Although Mahama has faced allegations during his previous terms, claims of misconduct did not implicate him directly in recent investigations. He has assured citizens of accountability within his administration, hinting at the establishment of special courts for corruption cases.

As Mahama prepares for his inauguration next month, pressures mount to deliver on promises reflecting the hopes of Ghanaians. Politician Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante indicates that Mahama must also seek financial accountability from the outgoing government to ensure transparency in the transition and build a cohesive strategy going forward. Mahama himself acknowledged the high expectations during his victory speech, emphasizing the need for delivering on promises to avoid public backlash. "Expectations of Ghanaians are very high, and we cannot afford to disappoint them," he stated, setting a tone of commitment for his term ahead.