Accra, Ghana — Economist and University of Ghana lecturer and the Executive Director of the policy think tank Africa Policy Lens, Dr. George Domfe, has emphasized that sound economic management is the most decisive predictor of electoral victory in Ghana, pointing to the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s 2024 win as evidence.
Dr. Domfe explained that while the NDC’s campaign was often sharp and confrontational, it was not insults or slogans that swayed voters. Instead, the lived realities of Ghanaians — rising inflation, a weakening cedi, and high unemployment — proved decisive. “The NDC did not win because of insults or propaganda. They won because the economic situation was unbearable for the average Ghanaian,” he said.
The 2024 elections were held against the backdrop of Ghana’s debt restructuring programme and an IMF bailout, which imposed strict austerity measures. Households faced escalating costs of living, while businesses struggled with access to credit and high utility tariffs. These conditions created fertile ground for the opposition to capitalize on discontent, reinforcing the principle that economic hardship directly shapes voter behavior.
Dr. Domfe’s remarks have sparked debate within political circles. While some analysts agree that the NDC’s success was driven more by economic realities than campaign tactics, others contend that the party’s communication strategy amplified voter frustrations. Yet, the broader consensus is that economic management — not rhetoric — remains the ultimate test at the ballot box.
