A recent survey conducted by the Ghana Pre-election Survey and presented by Prof. Justice Moses K. Aheto, Lead Consultant at SACS Consult, has unveiled a significant lead for John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the country approaches its presidential elections on December 7, 2024.
The findings, suggest a potential shift in political dynamics, indicating Mr Mahama is favoured by 55.2%percent of respondents, compared to 38.4percent for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The survey, which included a robust sample size of 22,689 respondents, highlights several key factors influencing voter preferences.
Notably, an established track record of delivery (22.7%) and perceptions of honesty and trustworthiness (22.4%) emerged as critical reasons for respondents’ choices.
Mr Mahama, notably excelled in all assessed categories, with an impressive 80.5percent of participants citing his ‘excellent track record’ as a decisive factor.
Geographically, the former President, is projected to secure victories in 14 out of the 16 regions, contingent on maintaining his lead in the North East Region.
The survey also indicates that Mr Mahama’s appeal, is particularly strong among tertiary-educated voters, where he leads by 19.7percent.
However, the survey results reveal a broader discontent among the electorate regarding the current NPP government, with nearly 90 percent of respondents believing the country is headed in the wrong direction, attributing economic woes largely to mismanagement and corruption.
Concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process were highlighted, with 66 percentof respondents expressing distrust in the Electoral Commission of Ghana to conduct free and fair elections.
In contrast, 65.8 percent of participants expressed confidence in the security agencies’ ability to ensure adequate security during the election period.
The survey also identified critical issues facing Ghanaians, with the high cost of living (47.2%) emerging as the foremost concern, followed by unemployment (14.5%), corruption (13.1%), and illegal mining activities (galamsey) at 8.3percent.
The data presents a compelling case for Mr Mahama’s potential victory in the upcoming elections, with the NDC positioned to capitalize on the electorate’s concerns over economic management and the urgency for change.
As the election date approaches, these findings may shape the campaign messages of both parties, emphasizing the need to address the pressing issues facing the nation.
