By TAKORADI, Ghana — Ghana’s ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) launched its manifesto for the December elections on Sunday, emphasizing job creation and economic development in a bid to secure an unprecedented third consecutive term in office.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s presidential candidate, unveiled the document at a large gathering in Takoradi, attended by party officials, diplomats, and outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo.
“Our vision is clear,” Bawumia told supporters. “We will create jobs, empower the youth, provide tax amnesty, and unleash the potential of the private sector to drive Ghana’s economic transformation.”
The NPP’s manifesto highlights several key initiatives, including a job creation program aimed at addressing unemployment, particularly among youth. It also proposes a tax amnesty program to encourage businesses to comply with regulations without facing penalties, as well as plans for expanding access to education and improving infrastructure.
Bawumia stressed the party’s commitment to tackling unemployment, a pressing issue in Ghana. “We know the challenges our youth face, and we are committed to tackling unemployment head-on,” he said.
The manifesto launch comes as Ghana faces significant economic challenges. The country entered a $3 billion loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund after an economic downturn in 2022 resulted in record-high 54% inflation.
The NPP faces a strong challenge from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by former President John Mahama. Both Bawumia and Mahama hail from northern Ghana, adding a regional dimension to the contest.
Joshua Jebuntie Zaato, a political science lecturer at the University of Ghana, cautioned about the gap between campaign promises and governance realities. “Political parties tend to promise the moon during campaigns, but the reality of governance often limits what can actually be delivered,” he told AFP.
The December elections are seen as a critical test for Ghana, often considered one of West Africa’s most stable democracies. The NPP’s bid for a third term comes amid economic difficulties and growing public discontent over living costs.
President Akufo-Addo, who attended the manifesto launch, is stepping down after serving the maximum two terms in office.
As the campaign intensifies, both the NPP and NDC are expected to focus on economic issues, with job creation and inflation likely to be key battlegrounds in the run-up to the December vote.
