Dr. George Domfeh, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Ghana and President of Africa Policy Lens, has countered Mussa Dankwah’s bold prediction that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia would lose to any NDC candidate. Domfeh argues it’s far from certain, emphasizing that global market dynamics will play a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s political future. He draws on historical patterns where shifts in government power have mirrored the nation’s economic fortunes under previous presidents, underscoring that voter sentiment often hinges on tangible prosperity.
To retain power, Domfeh urges the incumbent government to prioritize youth employment as a cornerstone strategy. He highlights the stark reality where even PhD holders grapple with joblessness, pointing out that no new factories have been commissioned in the past four years. Concrete initiatives in job creation, agricultural development, and hope-inspiring programs are essential to rebuild public confidence and counter widespread disillusionment.
Domfeh critiques flagship policies like the 24-hour economy and the ongoing battle against galamsey—illegal small-scale mining—as falling short of expectations. These efforts, he warns, have not delivered the promised results, risking electoral backlash if unaddressed. The environmental devastation from galamsey, including polluted rivers and health crises, has fueled public outrage and amplified its influence on voter priorities, intertwining economic woes with ecological urgency.
Ultimately, Domfeh stresses that no government enjoys an automatic eight-year tenure. With global markets fluctuating and domestic challenges like unemployment and galamsey intensifying, the path to re-election demands swift, effective reforms. As Ghana navigates these intertwined factors, the electorate’s verdict will reflect not just rhetoric, but real progress in livelihoods and national resilience.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku