Broadcast journalist, entrepreneur, and radio presenter Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, has made a bold and definitive statement regarding the outcome of Ghana’s 2024 election. Despite widespread anticipation that this election may be one of the closest and most contested in the country’s history, Captain Smart has expressed unwavering confidence in the outcome. He has predicted a clear victory for a particular candidate, stating that this year’s election will be decided without the need for a runoff.
Ghana’s 2024 general election is highly anticipated, and for a good reason. The election marks a pivotal moment in the country’s democratic journey, as the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) seeks to break the historical “eight-year cycle.” Historically, no political party in Ghana has managed to stay in power for more than two terms, and the NPP is aiming to defy this trend by winning the election under the leadership of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. On the other hand, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by former President John Dramani Mahama, is positioning itself to reclaim power. Mahama, who served as president from 2012 to 2016, is aiming for a return to the presidency and is seen as a formidable contender.
Captain Smart’s claim that one candidate will win the 2024 election outright, without a runoff, has stirred considerable interest. In Ghana’s electoral system, a candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote to win in the first round. If no candidate achieves this, a second-round runoff election is held between the top two candidates. However, Captain Smart believes that the margin will be clear enough that the need for a second round will be avoided. In his characteristic assertive style, Captain Smart stated that he is confident in his prediction, despite the tight race expected between the NPP and NDC. According to him, the political landscape, voter sentiment, and the dynamics of the ongoing campaigns suggest that one party is heading for a decisive victory. Although he did not explicitly endorse a candidate in this statement, his prediction has fueled speculation about which side he believes will prevail.
The New Patriotic Party’s campaign is centered around the ambition to “Break the 8” – a reference to the historical trend where Ghanaian political parties have alternated power after two consecutive terms. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who serves as the Vice President of Ghana, is the NPP’s presidential candidate, with Education Minister Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate. The NPP’s campaign focuses on the achievements of the current administration, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, digitalization, and social interventions. Dr. Bawumia, who has been a key figure in spearheading economic and technological reforms, is viewed by many as the party’s hope for continuing its policies and retaining power. The NPP has also emphasized the need for stability and continuity in governance.
However, the party faces significant challenges, including economic hardships, public dissatisfaction over certain government policies, and a desire for change among a portion of the electorate. Despite these hurdles, the NPP remains optimistic that its record in government and Bawumia’s appeal will secure a first-round victory.
John Dramani Mahama is no stranger to Ghana’s political landscape, having served as both Vice President and President. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is betting on Mahama’s experience and his promise to deliver a more inclusive and people-centered administration. Mahama has focused his campaign on addressing the country’s economic challenges, promising policies aimed at job creation, social equity, and improved governance. His messaging has resonated with many Ghanaians who feel the pinch of rising costs of living and are seeking a change in leadership. The NDC is confident that Mahama’s return to the political stage will bring the party back to power. They believe that the electorate’s desire for change, combined with Mahama’s broad appeal across various demographics, gives them a strong chance of winning the 2024 election.
Captain Smart’s confident declaration that the 2024 election will be won without a runoff has added an intriguing dimension to the election discourse. While both the NPP and NDC are waging vigorous campaigns, the outcome remains uncertain. The stakes are incredibly high for both parties, and as the campaign season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Captain Smart’s bold prediction will hold true. As the election date approaches, Ghanaians are keeping a close eye on the evolving political landscape, hoping for a peaceful, transparent, and decisive election that will shape the country’s future trajectory.
