Did John Dramani Mahama truly believe he could overcome the odds and return to power, or was his confidence simply the product of a realization that this might be his final shot at the presidency? As it turns out, the former president has proven many doubters wrong.
In what is undeniably a remarkable feat, Mahama led the National Democratic Congress (NDC) from the depths of defeat in 2016 to a resounding victory in the 2024 elections, making him the 6th President of Ghana’s 4th Republic.
As the results from the early hours of December 8, 2024, poured in, the NDC’s gains were unmistakable, signaling the magnitude of the victory. The defeat was so comprehensive that even the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) were forced into conceding, a spectacle that many found hard to believe. The NPP, once a dominant force in Ghanaian politics, was reduced to just 81 MPs—the lowest tally in their recent history—left to scramble amidst the political wreckage.
Mahama, now poised for a second term in office, enters with a commanding parliamentary majority, signaling a strong foundation for his presidency. The 2024 election was always the NDC’s to lose, but Mahama and his team treated it with the seriousness of an underdog fight, as if defeat was still a real possibility.
“Resetting Ghana” became the campaign’s defining theme, a succinct but powerful slogan that resonated through every speech, poster, and message. The simplicity and consistency of this messaging set the tone for the campaign, focusing relentlessly on a promise of change and a fresh start for the country. The Mahama team knew that success would require a meticulous and disciplined effort, avoiding any distractions that could derail their path to victory.
While Mahama’s campaign was refreshingly focused, this did not mean it lacked a bite. Having been written off in the past, Mahama’s personal triumph here is even more significant for the depth of opposition he faced. It was a revenge election for many, one where the electorate’s palpable anger at the NPP’s mismanagement of the economy played a central role in Mahama’s landslide victory. For the NDC, the result marked the end of an electoral journey from the depths of defeat to the pinnacle of success.
Throughout the campaign, the NDC’s strategy was to stick to the script and avoid the pitfalls of previous elections where gaffes and distractions had cost them dearly. Unlike the NPP, which faltered with internal divisions and an economic record that left much to be desired, Mahama and his team remained calm, focused, and relentless in their pursuit of victory.
The NPP, for its part, appeared out of sync with the electorate’s needs. Despite early advantages in campaign resources, their economic policies and leadership became a liability as voters grew increasingly frustrated with the state of the country. Mahama capitalized on this discontent, particularly with his opponents’ inability to address key issues such as inflation, unemployment, and the depreciating cedi. In contrast, Mahama’s ability to engage with the electorate and present himself as a capable alternative to the incumbent leadership played a pivotal role in his victory.
The NPP’s campaign was marred by infighting, with the dramatic departure of Alan Kyerematen from the party and other internal conflicts further alienating their base. These distractions allowed Mahama to emerge as the stronger candidate, gaining momentum with each misstep made by his rivals. As the NPP stumbled, Mahama’s calm demeanor and political experience shone through, making him a formidable contender for the presidency.
Mahama’s victory is a testament to his resilience and political savvy. His return to power marks a significant shift in Ghana’s political landscape, but it also reflects deep dissatisfaction with the NPP’s leadership. While Mahama’s victory is not solely a reflection of the electorate’s love for the NDC, it is undeniable that the NPP’s unpopularity played a key role in bringing him back to office.
However, the road ahead is not without challenges. While Mahama will enter office with a strong parliamentary majority, the expectations on his government will be immense. The NDC’s success in the 2024 election has raised hopes for quick reforms and improvements, but Mahama will need to manage these expectations carefully to avoid disappointment among voters. His ability to deliver on promises of change will determine whether his second term is marked by long-lasting success or whether the NDC’s mandate proves to be fragile.
As Mahama prepares to take office once again, he is fully aware of the immense challenges ahead. His victory in 2024 was hard-won, but now the real work begins. He will need to address the pressing issues of economic recovery, job creation, and national unity. For Mahama, the task is clear: deliver on the promises that earned him this overwhelming victory, or risk squandering the mandate he has been given.
The victory, while historic, is only the beginning of what promises to be a challenging and pivotal second term. As Mahama begins to wield the power granted to him by the voters, he must prove that the “reset” he promised during his campaign is more than just a slogan—it must be a lasting change that elevates the country and secures his legacy as one of Ghana’s most significant political leaders.
