Former President John Dramani Mahama is positioned strongly for the upcoming December 2024 general elections in Ghana, as per a recent poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics. The survey, conducted two months ahead of the elections, indicates that Mahama, who is the leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is leading with a significant 51.1% of committed voter support. His nearest competitor, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), significantly lags behind with 37.3%. The poll also highlights the standing of independent candidates Nana Kwame Bediako and Alan Kyerematen, who are currently trailing with 6.2% and 4.1%, respectively. This polling data paints Mahama as the frontrunner, setting the stage for a potentially competitive electoral battle in December.
The poll results reveal a widening gap between Mahama and Bawumia, particularly among undecided and floating voters, a critical demographic in any election. Mahama has garnered 54% support from these uncertain voters, compared to Bawumia’s mere 23%. This 31-point advantage among undecided voters underscores Mahama’s commanding position and suggests that his campaign resonates well with the electorate at this pivotal moment. Such a trend among floating voters could be vital as they often play a decisive role in determining election outcomes, and their increasing alignment with Mahama could be a determining factor in the final results.
Support within their respective political bases is also a telling feature of the current electoral landscape. Mahama enjoys overwhelming loyalty from his supporters, securing an impressive 96% backing from his core followers, while Bawumia holds 88% of his base. This 8-point advantage in terms of loyal support could further bolster Mahama’s chances as the elections draw closer. This data indicates that Mahama has successfully solidified his support structure, indicating a strong party base ready to mobilize in his favor during the elections, which Bawumia will need to close effectively to remain competitive.
Amid the political dynamics, economic issues dominate voter concerns in this election cycle. According to the poll, 70% of participants identify the economy as the primary challenge, followed by 62% who point to job creation as a significant concern, and 48% who emphasize education. This focus on pivotal societal issues signals that candidates need to clearly address these topics to appeal to the electorate. Both parties will need to articulate feasible strategies that resonate with voters’ experiences and aspirations related to the economy and employment, which are of grave importance leading into the elections.
As the electoral date approaches, Mahama’s increasing popularity and confidence suggest a fortified position for him to reclaim the presidency, a goal he has relentlessly pursued since leaving office. Bawumia, while fighting hard to remain in contention, faces a daunting challenge in bridging the growing gap between them. The dynamics observed in the poll reveal a shift in voter sentiment that could prove challenging for the current administration as they strive to convince voters that they can drive change amidst pressing economic concerns.
The race for the presidency is evidently heating up as Mahama’s polling numbers rise and the campaign intensifies. The stark difference in support among undecided voters heavily favoring Mahama, coupled with the clear prioritization of economic issues among Ghanaians, sets up a critical and intense final stretch as the December elections draw near. As both candidates gear up for what promises to be a fierce contest, the focus will be on how effectively they can address voter concerns and wield their influence in the remaining months leading to the elections.
