John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is thrilled about his party’s eighth position on the 2024 presidential election ballot. This development follows the Electoral Commission’s balloting exercise held on September 20, 2024.
Mahama took to Facebook to share his enthusiasm, describing number eight as a symbol of hope and change for the NDC. “I am excited that we picked No. 8 on the ballot for the upcoming presidential elections. Let’s make this a number of hope and change on December 7,” he wrote, rallying his supporters to embrace the significance of this position.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, also expressed his support for the NDC’s ballot position. On social media, he posted, “8 is excellent. Don’t break it. Choose it!” This statement seems to signal strong backing for the party and its positioning ahead of the elections.
Mahama’s optimism is understandable, given his party’s history and his own experience in Ghanaian politics. As the former President of Ghana from 2012 to 2017, he has a deep understanding of the nation’s needs and challenges.
The NDC’s primary election was held on May 13, 2023, where Mahama won the nomination with an overwhelming 98.8% of the valid votes. This landslide victory set the stage for his fourth consecutive run as the NDC’s flagbearer.
As the December 7, 2024, elections approach, Mahama’s positive outlook on the number eight could inspire his supporters and potentially impact the election’s outcome. The NDC’s campaign will likely focus on issues that resonate with Ghanaian voters, such as economic growth, education, and healthcare.
Ghana’s electoral system uses a two-round system to elect the president, while the 275 members of Parliament are elected in single-member constituencies using first-past-the-post voting. The Electoral Commission has outlined key dates for the election process, including voter registration and campaign periods.
With 24 presidential candidates vying for the top spot, the competition will be fierce. Mahama’s NDC will face challenges from other major parties, including the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the Movement For Change party, led by Alan John Kyerematen.
As the campaign season unfolds, Mahama’s enthusiasm for the number eight will likely be matched by his opponents’ strategies to secure their own advantageous positions. The outcome of the election will depend on various factors, including the parties’ campaign promises, voter turnout, and the effectiveness of their outreach efforts.
In the end, the Ghanaian people will decide who leads their country next. With Mahama’s optimism and the NDC’s strong support, the stage is set for a competitive and intriguing presidential election.
