In an unprecedented move, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is putting itself in a position to “break the eight,” or achieve more than eight years in office.
Kwesi Pratt, speaking this morning on Pan African TV morning show, gave three reasons that can help Bawumia to win this year’s election if NDC Mahama does not play their cards well. Here are three pivotal points that he believes can propel NPP victory in the upcoming elections.
1. Distinguishing Bawumia from Nana Addo’s Performance
The presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has been quick to separate himself from President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration. The shortcomings of Akufo-Addo’s government, according to Bawumia, should not be interpreted as an indication of his presidential abilities.
His campaign slogan, “Give me the steer, ” highlights Bawumia’s commitment to setting Ghana on a new path, apart from his predecessor’s legacy. By taking this tack, he hope to divert voters’ attention away from the present government and onto his plans for the future.
2. The Future of Free Senior High School Education
The maintenance of the Free Senior High School (SHS) program is key to the NPP’s platform. The party’s press team is stressing that the future of this strategy is in jeopardy, and by supporting Bawumia will ensure its continuation. They claim that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and John Dramani Mahama intend to scrap the project.
Voters who consider Free SHS as a crucial advantage for Ghanaian households are likely to back the NPP if they portray themselves as the protectors of this popular policy.
3. The Four-Year Term Limitation for Mahama
Another tool the NPP is using to influence voters is limitations imposed by the constitution. No president may serve more than two terms, for a total of eight years, as stated in the 1992 constitution of Ghana. John Dramani Mahama would only be able to serve a one term as president, according to the NPP, which means he will be unable to enact lasting reforms if elected in 2024.
The NPP is trying to utilise this “Four-Year Term Syndrome” to make people believe that Mahama’s term won’t be long enough to make a difference, which would back up their claim that voting for them would provide continuity and continuous leadership. The NPP is trying to strengthen its position and win over voters by strategically focussing on these themes as the election gets closer. Even if these variables don’t end up being deciding, they certainly shape the current political conversation in Ghana.
