Ghana, often celebrated as a beacon of democracy in Africa, has once again showcased its commitment to democratic principles through free and fair elections. The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by John Mahama, secured a decisive victory in the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections. This shift in political power reflects growing public dissatisfaction with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). As Mahama assumes office as the president of the republic of Ghana on January 7, 2025, he inherits a nation in crisis. Baba Yunus Muhammad explores the factors behind the NPP’s defeat, the current state of Ghana, and the formidable challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the incoming administration, incorporating perspectives on environment and climate resilience.

The NPP’s Fall from Grace

The NPP’s electoral defeat is rooted in economic mismanagement, unfulfilled promises, and a growing disconnect with the populace. Ghana’s economy, once a model for regional stability, has faced severe challenges, including soaring debt, inflation, and unemployment.

Economic Missteps

Under President Nana Akufo-Addo, Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio reached an alarming 82.9% (IMF) by the end of 2024, driven by extensive external borrowing to fund infrastructure projects. Coupled with the global economic slowdown and decreased demand for key exports like cocoa, gold, and oil, the economy struggled to regain momentum. Inflation escalated from 10.4% in 2021 to over 38% in 2024, severely eroding purchasing power. Unemployment reached 13%, with youth unemployment exceeding 20%. These statistics highlight the deteriorating living standards for millions of Ghanaians.

The NPP’s reliance on IMF-prescribed austerity measures, including salary freezes, tax hikes, and subsidy cuts, further alienated the working and middle classes. The perceived prioritization of urban centers over rural communities compounded this disenchantment, especially in the underserved northern regions.

Political Missteps

Corruption scandals and accusations of nepotism plagued the NPP’s tenure. Mismanagement in the energy sector and opaque procurement deals eroded public trust. Additionally, the party’s inability to fulfill promises—such as creating one million jobs and improving education and healthcare—undermined its credibility. This dissatisfaction fueled the NDC’s campaign, which resonated with marginalized groups seeking change.

Ghana’s Current State: A Nation in Crisis

Economic Challenges

Ghana’s cedi depreciated by over 50% against the US dollar in three years, driving up import costs and inflation. Servicing public debt consumes over 60% of government revenue, leaving little for essential social investment. The rising cost of living has reversed years of progress in poverty reduction, leaving millions vulnerable.

Environmental Vulnerabilities

Climate change exacerbates Ghana’s challenges. Rising temperatures, deforestation, and erratic rainfall are disrupting agriculture and increasing food insecurity. Coastal erosion and flooding threaten communities and infrastructure, emphasizing the need for urgent climate adaptation and resilience measures.

Political and Social Polarization

The closely contested elections underscore deep divisions within the electorate. While Mahama’s victory signals a demand for change, it also highlights the need for reconciliation and unity. Institutional reforms—especially in electoral transparency and anti-corruption measures—are imperative for restoring trust in governance.

The Task Ahead for John Mahama

Mr. Mahama faces an uphill battle in stabilizing Ghana’s economy, fostering political reconciliation, and rebuilding public trust. As Ghanaians anticipate the new government, they are eagerly awaiting a clear stance on zero tolerance to corruption. It is crucial for the Mahama administration to demonstrate its commitment to rooting out corruption at all levels of government. This could mean not only actively recovering looted public funds but also ensuring that former government officials found guilty of corruption or abuse of office are held accountable. These officials must face legal consequences to reassure citizens that integrity will define the new government’s leadership.

This stance on corruption is essential for rebuilding trust with the people, ensuring that transparency and accountability are at the core of governance. If Mahama’s administration takes bold steps to uphold these principles, it would mark a crucial turning point in Ghana’s fight against corruption. Holding wrongdoers accountable, recovering stolen assets, and implementing new anti-corruption measures could restore public faith and signal a new dawn for effective and ethical governance. Achieving these goals requires inclusive governance and innovative solutions.

Economic Recovery: Balancing Growth and Sustainability

To restore economic stability, the Mahama administration must prioritize sustainable development:

1. Diversifying the Economy: Investments in agro-processing, renewable energy, and manufacturing can reduce dependence on traditional exports and create jobs.
2. Enhancing Revenue Collection: Strengthening tax systems and closing loopholes can increase government revenue without undue burden on citizens.
3. Promoting Fiscal Discipline: Conducting comprehensive audits of government spending can identify inefficiencies and reduce waste.
4. Green Transition: Climate adaptation and renewable energy initiatives can position Ghana as a leader in Africa’s green economy, ensuring long-term resilience and sustainability.

Environmental Sustainability as a Cornerstone

Addressing climate change must be a central pillar of Ghana’s recovery. As one of the nations most vulnerable to climate impacts, Ghana should:

• Implement reforestation programs to combat deforestation.
• Invest in clean energy solutions, such as solar and wind, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Promote sustainable agricultural practices to boost productivity while conserving resources.
• Strengthen disaster preparedness systems to protect communities from flooding and other climate-related threats.

Political Reconciliation and Institutional Reform

In a polarized political environment, fostering unity is paramount. Mahama’s administration should focus on:

1. Electoral Transparency: Enhancing the independence and capacity of the Electoral Commission.
2. Anti-Corruption Measures: Establishing independent agencies to investigate corruption, regardless of political affiliation.
3. Decentralization: Empowering local governments to address regional disparities and bring governance closer to the people.

Strengthening Social Infrastructure

Addressing the immediate needs of Ghanaians requires significant investments in education, healthcare, and housing:

• Universal Healthcare: Expanding the National Health Insurance Scheme to ensure comprehensive coverage.
• Educational Reforms: Emphasizing vocational training and STEM education to equip the youth for emerging industries.
• Affordable Housing: Partnering with private investors to reduce the housing deficit.

Lessons from the Past: Rethinking External Dependence

Ghana’s reliance on IMF-led programs often exacerbates inequality and undermines sovereignty. For instance, the 2014 IMF bailout program required Ghana to implement austerity measures such as subsidy removals and public sector wage freezes, which disproportionately impacted the poor and stoked public dissent. To avoid repeating past mistakes, the Mahama administration should:

• Develop Homegrown Policies: Leverage Ghana’s resources and potential to craft context-specific solutions.
• Engage Regional Partners: Strengthen trade and collaboration within ECOWAS to build a resilient economic bloc.
• Pursue Diverse Partnerships: Balance relationships with development partners, including China and the European Union, to maintain strategic autonomy.

A New Path Forward

Ghana stands at a critical juncture. The electorate’s demand for change reflects widespread yearning for economic relief and governance reforms. Mahama’s leadership will define Ghana’s trajectory in the years to come. By prioritizing sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, Ghana can rebuild itself as a beacon of resilience and progress on the African continent. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but with decisive action and visionary policies, Mahama’s administration has the potential to restore hope and create lasting prosperity for all Ghanaians

Reports Baba Yunus Muhammad

Ghana’s 2024 presidential election was a defining moment in the nation’s political and economic history, culminating in a resounding victory for former president John Dramani Mahama. This election was not merely about electing a new leader; it represented a collective yearning for accountability, transparency, and a fresh economic vision. Mahama’s triumph with 56.55% of the popular vote against Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who scored 41.61 percent of the popular vote underscores the electorate’s demand for substantial change after years of economic hardship under the outgoing administration.

The Socioeconomic Context Behind the Elections

The backdrop to this pivotal election was a nation grappling with one of its worst economic crises in recent history. Ghana, once hailed as a beacon of African economic stability, had become mired in hyperinflation, which at its peak soared above 40%. The depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against major currencies triggered a spiraling cost of living crisis, leaving citizens struggling to afford basic necessities. Additionally, unemployment levels reached unprecedented highs, with the youth disproportionately affected.

The NPP government, led by President Nana Akufo-Addo, faced widespread criticism for its economic mismanagement. Public debt had ballooned to unsustainable levels, exceeding 100% of GDP by 2023. This forced Ghana into a $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout, accompanied by austerity measures that further strained households. Corruption scandals and perceptions of governmental inefficiency compounded public dissatisfaction, setting the stage for a transformative election.

A Model Democratic Exercise

Despite the economic and social challenges, Ghana’s democratic resilience shone brightly during the December 7, 2024, election. With a voter turnout of 60.9%, the electoral process was marked by transparency, orderliness, and professionalism, bolstered by the commendable efforts of the Electoral Commission. Observers from international bodies, including the Commonwealth Observer Group and the African Union, praised the elections for their credibility.

Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s decision to concede defeat before the official results were announced was a significant moment. It reinforced Ghana’s reputation as a bastion of democratic stability in a region often marred by electoral disputes. His concession was seen as a gesture of statesmanship that further strengthened the nation’s democratic fabric.

John Mahama’s Remarkable Comeback

For John Dramani Mahama, the election marked a political renaissance. His first tenure as president (2012–2016) ended in electoral defeat amid allegations of corruption and a crippling energy crisis. Yet, his return to power symbolizes a remarkable reversal of fortunes and underscores the Ghanaian electorate’s belief in his potential to lead the nation out of its current challenges.

Mahama’s campaign was built on a pragmatic and comprehensive vision for economic recovery. His manifesto resonated with voters through proposals such as:

• Establishing a 24-hour economy, aiming to enhance productivity and create jobs across multiple sectors.
• Prioritizing youth employment through targeted programs in digital technology, agribusiness, and renewable energy.
• Revitalizing the agricultural sector with an emphasis on technological innovation and value-added processing.

These proposals provided hope for Ghanaians weary of economic decline and eager for a leader capable of steering the country toward sustainable growth.

Lessons from the Outgoing Government

The defeat of the NPP serves as a cautionary tale of the perils of economic mismanagement. During its tenure, the NPP struggled to address Ghana’s structural economic vulnerabilities, including over-reliance on commodity exports and limited industrialization. While the party implemented some infrastructure projects, such as the “One District, One Factory” initiative, these efforts were overshadowed by the broader economic downturn.

Corruption scandals also tainted the NPP administration’s reputation. High-profile cases of alleged misappropriation of public funds eroded public trust and reinforced perceptions of governance failure. Additionally, austerity measures imposed as part of the IMF bailout, including cuts to social spending and public-sector layoffs, further alienated citizens.

Challenges Awaiting the Mahama Administration

Mahama’s return to power comes with significant challenges. The economic recovery he has promised will require decisive action on multiple fronts:

1. Debt Restructuring and Fiscal Reforms: Ghana’s public debt crisis demands immediate attention. Mahama’s administration will need to negotiate favorable terms with creditors while implementing fiscal reforms to reduce deficits. This includes broadening the tax base and curbing wasteful spending.
2. Tackling Unemployment: With youth unemployment at crisis levels, Mahama must deliver on his campaign promise of job creation. This will involve expanding investment in sectors with high employment potential, such as technology, agriculture, and renewable energy.
3. Restoring Public Confidence in Governance: Transparency and accountability will be crucial for rebuilding trust. Mahama must demonstrate a commitment to fighting corruption, including strengthening institutions like the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
4. Addressing the Energy Sector: Energy reliability remains a critical issue. Mahama’s administration must prioritize investments in renewable energy and expand access to electricity, especially in underserved rural areas.
5. Managing Public Expectations: While citizens expect swift improvements, Mahama’s government will need to balance short-term relief measures with long-term structural reforms. Clear communication will be key to maintaining public support.

The Significance of Mahama’s Victory for Ghana and Africa

Mahama’s victory is significant not only for Ghana but also for the broader African continent. It highlights the resilience of democratic institutions in a region where many countries struggle with autocratic tendencies and electoral manipulation. Ghana’s 2024 election underscores the electorate’s increasing sophistication, as voters prioritized governance and policy over partisan loyalty.

Furthermore, Mahama’s pragmatic and inclusive approach offers a blueprint for other African leaders navigating similar challenges. By focusing on economic diversification, youth empowerment, and good governance, Mahama has an opportunity to position Ghana as a model for sustainable development in Africa.

Recommendations for Success

As Mahama embarks on his second term, he must learn from the missteps of his first presidency and the failures of his predecessor. Key recommendations include:

• Building a Meritocratic Team: Appointing competent individuals to key positions will be essential for effective governance.
• Engaging Stakeholders: Collaborating with civil society, the private sector, and international partners can enhance policy implementation.
• Promoting Inclusive Development: Ensuring that economic benefits reach all citizens, particularly marginalized communities, will strengthen social cohesion.
• Strengthening Institutions: Empowering anti-corruption agencies and the judiciary can reinforce accountability and the rule of law.

Conclusion: A New Era of Opportunity

Ghana’s 2024 presidential election represents a turning point for the nation. John Mahama’s historic comeback reflects the people’s aspirations for change and a renewed commitment to democratic principles. While the challenges ahead are formidable, Mahama’s victory provides an opportunity to chart a new course for Ghana—one defined by economic resilience, social equity, and good governance.

As Ghana navigates this critical juncture, the international community will watch closely, drawing lessons from a nation that continues to exemplify the potential of democracy in Africa. With visionary leadership and collective effort, Ghana can emerge stronger, offering hope and inspiration to a continent striving for progress.

Baba Yunus Muhammad is the President of the Africa Islamic Economic Forum, Ghana.

By Baba Yunus Muhammad

The overthrow of Bashar al-Assad by Syrian rebels represents a seismic shift in the Middle East, marking the end of a five-decade-long family dynasty. Like a magician’s inkblot, this dramatic turn of events has elicited diverse interpretations, with each faction projecting its own hopes, fears, and ambitions onto the evolving situation. While some view it as a new dawn for Syria, others are bracing for the immense challenges the new leadership faces in uniting the fractured nation and addressing its myriad crises.

Assad, who ruled Syria for 24 years, inherited power in 2000 following the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad, who had governed the country with an iron grip since 1971. This transition marked one of the most enduring autocracies in modern Arab history.

The Assad regime’s leadership style was characterized by centralized control, a pervasive security apparatus, and a blend of secularism and authoritarianism. While Hafez built a reputation as a cunning political strategist, Bashar, who was initially seen as a potential reformer, became known for brutal repression. His response to the 2011 Arab Spring protests, which evolved into a full-blown civil war, involved systematic violence, widespread detentions, and the use of chemical weapons, earning global condemnation.

A Dynasty Dismantled

Reports suggest that Bashar al-Assad and his family fled Damascus shortly before the regime’s collapse, seeking refuge in Russia, which has since granted him political asylum on humanitarian grounds. Speculation about betrayal within Assad’s inner circle abounds, with some attributing his downfall to disillusionment within the military ranks. The rapid disintegration of Syria’s armed forces—once considered a formidable institution—has fueled rumors of high-level defections and covert deals with the rebels.

Analysts point to decades of cronyism, corruption, and reliance on sectarian loyalty as key factors eroding the military’s cohesion. Additionally, the regime’s relentless focus on maintaining control over urban centers, while ceding vast rural territories to insurgents, may have undermined its strategic standing.

A Patchwork of Leadership and Perceptions

Steering Syria through this tumultuous transition is Mohamed al-Bashir, the newly appointed prime minister. Al-Bashir is a seasoned technocrat with roots in the moderate opposition, known for his economic expertise and measured approach to political discourse. His appointment is viewed as a pragmatic move to stabilize Syria’s shattered economy and temper the ideological fervor of the coalition that brought Assad’s regime to its knees.

Working alongside al-Bashir is Muhammad Johani, the charismatic leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Johani’s rise from militant commander to political figurehead underscores the paradoxes of Syria’s transition. While HTS has attempted to rebrand itself as a credible governing entity, Johani’s jihadist roots continue to raise concerns both domestically and internationally.

The rebel victory, celebrated by some as a triumph over tyranny, has however drawn mixed reactions globally. Western powers and regional backers like Turkey see it as vindication of their support for opposition forces, while allies of Assad—namely Iran and Russia—are grappling with the geopolitical fallout. At the same time, the heavy involvement of HTS and similar factions has sparked fears about the direction Syria’s governance will take under their influence and aid.

The Geopolitical Chessboard

The post-Assad landscape is further complicated by ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting Syrian strategic weapons, Iranian and Hezbollah positions in Syria. The occupation of the Golan Heights buffer zone underscores the persistent volatility in the region. Prime Minister al-Bashir faces the daunting task of addressing these external pressures while rebuilding domestic stability.

Rumors of Betrayal: The Silent Fall of the Military

One of the most perplexing aspects of Assad’s downfall was the sudden collapse of Syria’s military. Despite years of loyalty, many soldiers deserted their posts, blending into the civilian population as the regime’s defenses crumbled. This phenomenon has led to widespread speculation about behind-the-scenes negotiations and discontent within the ranks.

Critics argue that Assad’s reliance on sectarian militias and foreign fighters eroded trust among regular army units. Additionally, years of unpaid wages, inadequate resources, and morale-sapping defeats likely played a role in their disbandment.

Challenges Ahead: Uniting a Fractured Nation

Syria is a mosaic of ethnic, religious, and ideological communities, each carrying deep grievances and mistrust. The new rulers face an uphill battle in forging a national identity that transcends sectarian divides. The Sunni majority, Alawites, Kurds, Christians, and other minority groups have all suffered disproportionately during the conflict, and their inclusion in a new national framework will be pivotal to achieving lasting peace.

The jihadists’ ideological rigidity and history of intolerance pose risks to reconciliation efforts. If their governance mirrors Taliban-style authoritarianism, minority groups may resist or even seek external support, further fragmenting the country. Without deliberate efforts to engage all factions, Syria could devolve into a “state within a state,” with disparate regions governed by competing militias or autonomous administrations.

Geopolitical Complexities: The Israeli Factor

The situation is further complicated by Israel’s ongoing military actions in Syria. Israeli airstrikes, ostensibly targeting, Syrian strategic weapons, Iranian and Hezbollah assets, have intensified since Assad’s fall, adding to the instability. Additionally, the buffer zone along the Golan Heights remains under Israeli control, further undermining Syria’s territorial integrity. For the new leadership, addressing these external pressures will be a critical test of their political and diplomatic acumen.

Economic Ruin: The Burden of Rebuilding

Syria’s economy is in ruins, marked by hyperinflation, skyrocketing unemployment, and a collapse of basic infrastructure. International sanctions, internal corruption, and the systematic destruction of cities like Aleppo and Homs have left the nation on the brink of total economic collapse.

Syria’s economic collapse under Assad’s rule is among the worst in modern history. By 2023, the country’s GDP had plummeted to approximately $15 billion, down from $60 billion in 2010—a staggering 75% decline. Unemployment soared to over 50%, and the Syrian pound lost more than 90% of its value, pushing millions into poverty. Key sectors, including agriculture and oil production, have been decimated, with infrastructure losses estimated at $120 billion.

The Assad regime’s reliance on war profiteering, coupled with extensive international sanctions, exacerbated the crisis, leaving the new administration to grapple with hyperinflation, crumbling public services, and widespread food insecurity.

The rebels, now transitioning to governance, may find that managing a country is far more challenging than winning a military campaign. Key economic hurdles include:

• Infrastructure Reconstruction: Decades of war have destroyed critical facilities, including hospitals, schools, and power plants. Rebuilding these will require significant investment, which is unlikely to come without international recognition and cooperation.
• Currency Crisis: The Syrian pound has plummeted in value, eroding citizens’ purchasing power. Stabilizing the currency and addressing inflation will require economic expertise and external financial support.
• Oil and Trade Revenues: Much of Syria’s oil infrastructure is damaged or under competing factions’ control. Securing revenue streams and reopening trade routes will be crucial for economic recovery.
• Humanitarian Relief: With millions displaced internally and abroad, the new government must address urgent humanitarian needs while also creating conditions for refugees to return.

Governance Beyond the Gun

The transition from insurgency to governance is fraught with contradictions. Jihadist leaders, accustomed to wielding guns and issuing fatwas, must now grapple with the intricacies of policy-making, bureaucracy, and diplomacy. This shift demands pragmatism and flexibility, qualities often at odds with their militant ideology.

Moreover, without broad-based legitimacy, the new government risks becoming isolated internationally. If they fail to address human rights concerns or continue extremist practices, they may face diplomatic and economic isolation, akin to Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government. Conversely, if they adopt inclusive policies and open avenues for international cooperation, they might secure much-needed resources and recognition.

Conclusion

The overthrow of Bashar al-Assad represents an opportunity for Syria to chart a new course, but the path is fraught with dangers and uncertainties. The new leadership, under Mohamed al-Bashir, inherits a nation deeply scarred by war, economic collapse, and geopolitical rivalries. The incoming rulers must recognize that their success depends not on their prowess with weapons but on their ability to build bridges across Syria’s divided society, address the dire economic woes, and navigate a complex geopolitical landscape. Otherwise, the inkblot of opportunity they now hold may quickly turn into a stain if not handled with care, wisdom, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of all Syrians.

History teaches that the challenges of governance often surpass those of conflict. The world will be watching as they attempt to turn the page on a dark chapter and write a new one—however tentative and fragile—for the Syrian people, thus, bringing an end to one of the most devastating conflicts of the 21st century.

Baba Yunus Muhammad is the President of the Africa Islamic Economic Forum, Ghana