Written By: Qwofi Manuel
Accra, Ghana – The Electoral Commission of Ghana has officially released the ballot positions for the 2024 Presidential Election, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly competitive race. Thirteen candidates from various political parties and independent candidates will vie for the nation’s highest office, with the ballot positions now a key factor as they ramp up their campaigns.
The official announcement was made during a live event, revealing the following order for the ballot paper:
- Mahamudu Bawumia – New Patriotic Party (NPP)
- Daniel Augustus Lartey Jnr. – Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP)
- Akua Donkor – Ghana Freedom Party (GFP)
- Christian Kwabena Andrews – Ghana Union Movement (GUM)
- Kofi Akpaloo – Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG)
- Mohammed Frimpong – Independent
- Nana Akosua Frimpomaa – Convention People’s Party (CPP)
- John Dramani Mahama – National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Hassan Abdulai Ayariga – All People’s Congress (APC)
- Kofi Koranteng – Independent
- George Twum-Barima-Adu – Independent
- Nana Kwame Bediako – Independent
- Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen – Independent
Top Contenders Take Key Positions
Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President and the NPP’s flagbearer, secured the coveted first position on the ballot. Many political analysts believe this could provide a psychological edge, as the top spot is traditionally seen as a position of prominence.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), will appear in the 8th position. Having served two terms, Mahama is widely considered one of the frontrunners, with his campaign focusing on economic recovery and social equity.
Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, who recently resigned from the NPP to run as an independent candidate, will occupy the 13th position. His departure from the NPP to launch his independent bid has created waves within the political landscape, and his position at the bottom of the ballot could either present a challenge or symbolize a fresh start for his campaign.
New Faces and Independent Voices
The ballot also includes several new faces, including Nana Kwame Bediako, a successful businessman, and three independent candidates. These individuals aim to present an alternative to the traditional NPP and NDC dominance, hoping to capitalize on the growing demand for change in Ghana’s political arena.
Nana Akosua Frimpomaa of the CPP, a party with deep historical roots in Ghana’s independence, is hoping to revive the legacy of Kwame Nkrumah with her positioning in 7th place. Similarly, Hassan Ayariga of the APC, known for his humorous campaign style, will appear in the 9th position.
The Road to December
With the ballot positions now confirmed, candidates will intensify their efforts to connect with voters ahead of the December polls. Campaign messaging, branding, and voter outreach will likely be shaped by the psychological importance of these ballot positions, particularly for those in key spots like Bawumia, Mahama, and Kyerematen.
Election observers note that while ballot positioning can influence voter behavior, it is ultimately the candidates’ policies, track record, and ability to inspire the electorate that will determine the outcome.
As the race heats up, Ghanaians are encouraged to critically evaluate each candidate and participate in shaping the nation’s future by voting wisely on election day.
Social Media Buzz
The announcement of the ballot positions has sparked significant discussion on social media platforms. Supporters of various candidates are already promoting their positions, with hashtags like #Election2024, #GhanaDecides, and #BallotPosition trending across Twitter and Facebook.
Stay tuned for further updates as the election season progresses!
Source: net2tvgh
