Fitch Solutions, a renowned research and data firm, predicts that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) will emerge victorious over the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming December 7 general elections. The London-based firm has maintained this forecast since last year, supported by survey data indicating that 54 percent of respondents favor NDC's candidate, John Mahama.
In a recent Mid-Year Review for Sub-Saharan Africa, Mike Kruiniger, Associate Director of Country Risk at Fitch Solutions, highlighted the economy's critical role in shaping voter decisions. "We believe the opposition NDC has a stronger chance of winning the upcoming general elections compared to the ruling NPP. Recent polls consistently place the NDC ahead, with the latest survey showing 54 percent of respondents favoring the NDC," Kruiniger noted.
Economic management and job creation are expected to be the foremost issues influencing voters. Given the economic challenges faced by the country in recent years, the ruling NPP may find itself at a disadvantage.
Kruiniger further explained that a change in government would not significantly alter the country's policy direction. He suggested that a Mahama-led administration would likely continue with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program initiated by the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government. "The NDC will most likely stick to Ghana's IMF program, as the party has shown commitment to international agreements and obligations in the past. So, in summary, we expect policy continuation in Ghana despite a likely government change," he emphasized.