10 key issues of consideration towards building the Ghana we want: A call to action for the December 7, 2024 Elections

Abstract: The December 7, 2024, elections present a critical juncture for Ghana’s democratic and developmental trajectory. This paper emphasizes the need for Ghanaians to prioritize ten key issues that are pivotal to building the "Ghana we want."

These issues, corruption and accountability, agriculture and affordable food supply, equal opportunity, effective exchange rate management, efficient and equitable taxation, promotion of trade and business support, sustainability, quality healthcare and education, security and cohesion, and meritocracy in public service appointments, highlight the interconnected challenges facing the nation. The paper underscores the consequences of electing leaders who fail to address these priorities, from economic instability and public disillusionment to environmental degradation and social unrest. Additionally, it analyzes the broader implications of poor leadership on Ghana's future, including stagnation in sustainable development and worsening quality of life for its citizens. By offering actionable recommendations and calling for visionary leadership, this paper serves as a call to action for voters to make informed choices. Electing capable leaders committed to these priorities is not only essential for addressing pressing challenges but also for ensuring a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for Ghana.

Equity

1.    Introduction

Elections are a cornerstone of democratic governance, shaping policies, leadership, and the trajectory of nations. For Ghana, the December 7, 2024, elections represent a critical moment to select leaders whose visions align with the aspirations for a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future. The "Ghana we want" is one that embodies equitable governance, robust economic frameworks, and active citizen participation in nation-building.

Since the inception of Ghana's Fourth Republic in 1992, elections have consistently drawn enthusiastic participation from citizens aged 18 and above. However, post-election disillusionment has become a recurring sentiment. Many voters, who approach the polls with optimism and high expectations, later express disappointment when governance and economic outcomes fail to meet their aspirations. For instance, in the 2020 elections, citizens hoped for an economically resilient Ghana that would support personal and collective growth. Yet, the results have been mixed, with opinions polarized along political lines. This dissonance between expectations and reality has left many questioning the effectiveness of their electoral choices.

In the current electioneering climate, characterized by lofty promises and political maneuvering, it is imperative to refocus public discourse on the tangible outcomes that the nation desires post-election. Citizens must assess candidates based on their ability to deliver pragmatic and sustainable policies that address pressing socio-economic challenges. The ideal candidate must demonstrate the capacity to create opportunities, implement sound policies, and utilize Ghana's resources efficiently to inspire employment creation, local value generation, and economic retention.

As an academic with expertise in integrating governance practices into sustainable development strategies, I have analyzed critical priorities necessary for national progress. Drawing on these insights, this article identifies ten key issues that should guide voters as they assess candidates and political parties.

This analysis underscores that the upcoming elections are not merely a democratic exercise but a decision-making process that will define Ghana’s governance and socio-economic trajectory for years to come. It is a call to action for Ghanaians to evaluate candidates not just by their promises but by their demonstrated capacity to address these priorities effectively. In making their choices, voters must also ensure that candidates have the integrity to prioritize national interests over personal or partisan gains. Agency theory highlights the need for leaders who are neither self-serving nor prone to rent-seeking, and who avoid white elephant projects that waste public resources.

The ten areas outlined in this article address Ghana’s most pressing socio-economic challenges and governance deficits, offering a roadmap for national progress and improved quality of life for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation or economic background. This call to action urges every voter to critically assess candidates’ ability to implement pragmatic, sustainable solutions. By doing so, Ghanaians can make informed choices that lay the foundation for a future defined by equity, stability, and progress.

The remainder of this paper is organized as follows: The Ten Key Issues of Consideration Towards Building the Ghana We Want section outlines critical socio-economic challenges while offering actionable recommendations. The Issues and Consequences of Failing to Elect the Right Candidate section highlights the risks of neglecting these priorities. The Broader Impact on Ghana’s Future explores the long-term implications of poor leadership, while the Conclusion and Call to Action urges citizens to vote for leaders who can address these issues and secure a prosperous future for Ghana.

2.    Ten key issues of consideration towards building the Ghana we want

Building the Ghana we want requires a deliberate focus on addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges through sustainable policies, effective governance, and citizen-centered development. These ten key issues encapsulate critical areas that demand attention and action from leadership. They represent the foundational pillars for achieving economic stability, social equity, environmental sustainability, and national cohesion. Each issue highlights a specific challenge and proposes actionable solutions to ensure Ghana's transformation into a prosperous and inclusive society, as discussed in turn.

2.1    Corruption and Accountability

Corruption in Ghana remains a pervasive issue that undermines governance, slows economic growth, and erodes public trust. It manifests in various forms, including embezzlement of public funds, bribery, nepotism, and procurement fraud. These corrupt practices result in inefficiencies within public service delivery and mismanagement of state resources, ultimately exacerbating inequality. The perception of widespread corruption discourages foreign direct investment (FDI) and stifles local entrepreneurship, as businesses grapple with bureaucratic bottlenecks and illicit demands for payments.

Corruption and weak accountability structures have far-reaching consequences. First, corruption erodes public trust, undermining citizens' confidence in leadership and governance structures. This loss of trust reduces civic engagement and threatens social cohesion. Second, it diverts crucial resources meant for national development into private hands, limiting the allocation of funds for critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Third, corruption creates an uneven playing field for businesses, raising the cost of doing business and discouraging both local and international investment. Finally, it fosters a culture of impunity, weakening institutional frameworks and reducing the effectiveness of government policies.

In order to address corruption effectively, Ghana must adopt a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy that emphasizes accountability, transparency, and citizen engagement. This includes:

Strengthening institutions, which is a critical first step. Independent anti-corruption watchdogs like the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) must be adequately resourced and empowered. These institutions should have prosecutorial powers to pursue cases of corruption decisively. Concurrently, robust monitoring mechanisms should be implemented to ensure that government expenditure aligns with intended development objectives.

Enforcing stringent laws is another essential measure. Existing anti-corruption laws should be applied uniformly, targeting high-profile offenders to demonstrate a commitment to justice and deter future violations. Whistleblower protections must also be prioritized to encourage individuals to report corrupt practices without fear of retaliation.

Promoting transparency in governance is equally vital. Government transactions, particularly in procurement and contracting, must be conducted openly and audited regularly. Leveraging e-governance platforms can minimize human interaction in service delivery, reducing opportunities for corrupt practices. For example, digitalizing government services such as tax collection and permit issuance can eliminate informal payments and increase accountability. This may call for improvement in the telecommunication services, including data and internet connectivity quality and affordability.  

Apparently, encouraging citizen participation in governance is a cornerstone of accountability. Public engagement in governance should be institutionalized through platforms like town hall meetings and participatory budgeting. Civic education campaigns can also empower citizens to hold leaders accountable while fostering a sense of shared responsibility for combating corruption.

Cultural reorientation is essential for long-term success. Raising awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption through public education campaigns can help promote integrity as a national value. Ethical behavior must be celebrated and integrated into the national consciousness.

The government should establish and empower independent anti-corruption watchdogs with prosecutorial powers. These agencies must operate autonomously to investigate and prosecute corrupt practices effectively. Furthermore, active citizen participation should be institutionalized through oversight committees and whistleblower programs to ensure transparency and accountability at all levels of governance.

Addressing corruption and strengthening accountability structures can yield transformative outcomes. Public trust in institutions will increase, fostering societal cohesion and enhancing citizen engagement in governance. The efficient use of public funds will accelerate development in critical sectors, improving access to quality healthcare, education, and infrastructure. A transparent business environment will attract investment, stimulate entrepreneurship, and boost job creation, thereby driving economic growth. Strengthened institutions will ensure the effective implementation of policies, resulting in equitable and sustainable development.

Combating corruption is essential for realizing the "Ghana we want." Accountability and transparency must become non-negotiable pillars of governance. Electoral choices should prioritize candidates with proven integrity and a strong commitment to rooting out corruption. By addressing corruption decisively, Ghana can ensure sustainable development, equitable prosperity, and a brighter future for all its citizens.

2.2    Agriculture and Affordable Food Supply

Agriculture is the backbone of Ghana’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to GDP. Despite its importance, the sector faces numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, low levels of mechanization, insufficient investment, and climate change impacts. These issues have culminated in food insecurity, with rising food costs disproportionately affecting low-income households. Additionally, Ghana's reliance on food imports creates economic vulnerabilities, particularly when the cedi depreciates.

A robust agricultural sector is fundamental to achieving food security, creating jobs, and reducing poverty. Modernizing agriculture can improve productivity, enhance food supply, and increase the sector’s contribution to national development. Furthermore, an efficient agricultural system can stabilize food prices, reducing the economic burden on citizens and enhancing overall quality of life.

To transform agriculture, Ghana needs a comprehensive strategy emphasizing investment in infrastructure, such as irrigation systems, storage facilities, and transportation networks. Mechanization programs must be scaled up to increase efficiency and reduce post-harvest losses. Encouraging research and development in climate-resilient crops and modern farming techniques will also enhance productivity. Additionally, policies should prioritize access to affordable credit and inputs for farmers, ensuring that smallholder farmers are included in the modernization process.

Candidates should propose actionable plans for agricultural transformation, including public-private partnerships to mobilize resources and support for smallholder farmers. Subsidizing fertilizers and seeds, coupled with investing in rural infrastructure, will enhance productivity and ensure affordable food supply.

2.3    Equal Opportunity for All

Ghana continues to grapple with disparities in access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Women, youth, and marginalized communities often face systemic barriers that limit their potential. These inequities perpetuate cycles of poverty, hinder social mobility, and undermine national cohesion.

Equal opportunity fosters social harmony and economic progress. When all citizens can access quality education, healthcare, and employment, the nation benefits from the full utilization of its human capital. Inclusivity strengthens social cohesion, reduces poverty, and promotes innovation by empowering diverse groups to contribute to national development.

Policies should focus on expanding access to quality education and healthcare, especially in underserved regions. Affirmative action programs can address systemic inequalities, while job creation initiatives should target youth and marginalized groups. Additionally, investment in skills development and entrepreneurship will empower disadvantaged populations to compete in the labor market.

Candidates must commit to eliminating barriers to equal opportunity by introducing inclusive policies, increasing budget allocations for social services, and ensuring equitable resource distribution across regions.

2.4    Effective exchange rate management

The volatility of Ghana’s exchange rate poses significant challenges to businesses and households. A depreciating cedi raises the cost of imports, fuels inflation, and erodes purchasing power. These dynamics destabilize the economy, discourage investment, and strain household budgets.

A stable exchange rate is crucial for economic growth and stability. It reduces inflationary pressures, enhances investor confidence, and lowers the cost of doing business. Effective exchange rate management ensures that businesses can plan with certainty, supporting long-term investment and job creation.

Policies should focus on increasing foreign exchange reserves, diversifying export products, and promoting value addition to exports. Encouraging remittances and foreign direct investment while controlling inflation through prudent fiscal and monetary policies will stabilize the cedi. Additionally, reducing the import dependency on essential goods can alleviate pressure on the currency. Accordingly, a candidate with the dexterity to lead and manage a team to devise and implement deliberate but pragmatic policies to stabilize the cedi, including promoting exports, managing inflation, and fostering economic diversification should be the most preferred and should be the toss of all. 

It should be explained that the volatility of Ghana’s exchange rate has a direct and significant relationship with the country’s public debt. A depreciating cedi increases the cost of servicing external debt, as repayments denominated in foreign currencies become more expensive in local currency terms. This adds substantial pressure to Ghana’s fiscal position, diverting resources from critical developmental projects toward debt servicing. Past experiences shown that the rising debt burden also leads to a greater reliance on new borrowing, often at unfavorable terms, further exacerbating the debt cycle.

Additionally, exchange rate instability undermines the country’s creditworthiness. A weak cedi signals economic instability to international lenders and investors, leading to higher risk premiums on loans and increased borrowing costs. This creates a vicious cycle where debt servicing costs rise as the currency weakens, fueling further debt accumulation. 

Exchange rate volatility directly impacts inflation, as a weak cedi raises the cost of imports, including essential goods such as fuel, food, and raw materials. This drives up the cost of living, disproportionately affecting households with lower incomes. The resultant inflationary pressures erode purchasing power, increasing socio-economic inequalities and reducing quality of life.

Ghana’s agriculture sector, which relies on imported inputs like fertilizers, is significantly affected by exchange rate volatility. Thus, a depreciating cedi increases input costs, reducing farmers’ profitability and output. This exacerbates food insecurity and raises food prices, undermining efforts to ensure affordable food supply.

Exchange rate instability discourages investment in businesses and trade. Local businesses face increased costs for imported goods and uncertainty in pricing, reducing competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. Exporters, while potentially benefiting from a weaker cedi, face challenges if inputs are also imported or if volatility disrupts financial planning.

Furthermore, a volatile exchange rate reduces the predictability of public revenues derived from trade taxes and export duties. This complicates fiscal planning and affects the government’s ability to fund public services and infrastructure, increasing reliance on external borrowing.

As it were, resulting net effect of exchange rate volatility, and inability of an economic management team to effectively manage it is high cost of living, leading to economic hardship. The resulting hardship on the citizens can trigger social unrest, particularly if inflation spirals out of control and households struggle to afford basic necessities. The resulting instability further deters investment and undermines national cohesion.

In line with the agency theory, effective exchange rate management requires capable and experienced policymakers, particularly those who are not self-seeking, rent-seeking rational political appointees. Suggesting that nepotism and unqualified appointments to key economic positions can exacerbate mismanagement, leading to policy failures that further destabilize the currency. Accordingly, a meritocracy in public service is recommended, as this does not only ensure the engagement of talents with expertise necessary to navigate such challenges, but also does not allow themselves to be easily corrupt, have their say irrespective of who appoint them.

2.5    Efficient and equitable taxation system

The next critical issue of consideration in building the Ghana we want is the candidate who has the known how and ability to identify experience and pragmatic team to devise and lead an efficient and equitable taxation system that encourage voluntary compliance and self-regulatory. This only possible by leadership where the elected president files and pays taxes himself, as is practice in most efficient economies in the world. This is a critical evaluative criterion of equity in taxation, as suggested by Adam Smith in his “wealth of nations”.

Ghana's tax system has often been criticized for its inefficiencies and disproportionate burden on middle- and lower-income earners. High indirect taxes on goods and services exacerbate inequality, while tax evasion by the wealthy, particularly the political class, reducing government revenue for development.

A fair taxation system promotes social equity and funds essential public services. Efficient tax collection broadens the revenue base, reducing reliance on external borrowing and improving fiscal sustainability. Equitable taxation fosters public trust and compliance, enhancing the government’s ability to deliver on development priorities.

Accordingly, tax reforms and systems focusing on progressive taxation, reducing indirect taxes, which often leads to inflation and high cost of living as witnessed under tax policy measures in the past, as well as increase voluntary compliance. Strengthening the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and simplifying tax processes will enhance collection efficiency. Public education on tax compliance and transparent use of tax revenue will build trust in the system. Avoiding dubious supply contracts with the revenue authority that could be perceived as rent-seeking and providing transparent evidence of the efficient utilization of tax contributions in the national pool, may be critical in fostering voluntary compliance.

Based on the foregoing discussions, a candidate with a great proposal for implementing equitable tax policies that balance revenue generation with social equity, and ensures that tax burdens are fairly distributed, should be the ideal persons in Ghana’s apex leadership role.

2.6    Promotion of trade and support for businesses

Ghana's industrial base remains underdeveloped, and businesses face high operational costs due to inadequate infrastructure, limited access to credit, and bureaucratic hurdles. These challenges hinder trade, job creation, and economic diversification.

Thriving businesses drive economic growth, create jobs, and generate revenue. A conducive environment for trade and entrepreneurship stimulates innovation, strengthens local industries, and reduces unemployment. Export growth also enhances foreign exchange earnings, stabilizing the economy.

Accordingly, policy efforts that prioritize improving infrastructure, reducing energy costs, and providing affordable credit to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) should be the way to go. Simplifying business registration processes and promoting exports through trade agreements and incentives will boost economic activity. Public-private partnerships can accelerate industrialization and innovation.

It is therefore imperative that a candidate that present clear strategies that are practical to be implemented to support SMEs, enhance trade policies, and attract investment to build a resilient industrial base should be supported.

2.7    Sustainability issues, including galamsey

Illegal mining (galamsey), deforestation, and pollution threaten Ghana’s environment, public health, and economic prospects. These unsustainable practices deplete natural resources, destroy ecosystems, and compromise the livelihoods of communities.

Accordingly, sustainable resource management policy instruments and deliberate efforts that ensure efficiency and value creation that inspire local content and local participation in every sphere of resource operations and related value chain activities are critically essential for long-term development. Protecting natural resources ensures food security, clean water, and economic stability for future generations. Addressing galamsey and environmental degradation safeguards public health and mitigates climate change impacts.

Robust environmental policies and enforcement mechanisms must specifically target illegal mining and deforestation. Incentivizing sustainable practices, promoting renewable energy adoption, and empowering local communities to manage resources responsibly are essential for ensuring environmental conservation. The application of carbon taxation to address galamsey and other environmental challenges is highly recommended. 

In this regard, a candidate committed to enforcing environmental laws, tackling galamsey, and implementing sustainable development initiatives should be considered the ideal choice.

2.8    Quality healthcare and education

Another key issue for consideration is quality healthcare and education. Particularly, healthcare and education are foundational to building human capital, which drives national development. A healthy and educated population is not only more productive but also better equipped to innovate and contribute to societal progress. In Ghana, these sectors face significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, underfunding, and the migration of skilled professionals (brain drain). These deficits have led to limited access to quality healthcare and education, especially in rural and underserved areas, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

Improving healthcare accessibility and education quality requires targeted investments and strategic reforms. For healthcare, expanding infrastructure, such as hospitals and clinics, and ensuring equitable distribution of resources are crucial. The government must prioritize training and retaining healthcare professionals by offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and improved working conditions to counteract brain drain.

In education, reforms should focus on enhancing teacher training, improving school facilities, and integrating technology into classrooms. Free and equitable access to education, particularly at the basic and secondary levels, must be maintained while ensuring quality through regular curriculum reviews aligned with international standards. Policies should also emphasize vocational and technical education to equip students with practical skills that meet market demands.

Neglecting healthcare and education stifles long-term economic growth and exacerbates social inequalities. Without accessible healthcare, productivity declines due to untreated illnesses, and education gaps limit future earning potential and socio-economic mobility. Therefore, a candidate committed to strengthening these sectors is indispensable for Ghana's sustainable development.

2.9    Security, safety, and national cohesion

Beyond the preceding issues outlined and discussed, the next key issue for consideration in this election is security, safety and cohesion. Ghana’s stability is increasingly under threat from terrorism, cybercrime, communal conflicts, and other security risks. These issues jeopardize not only the safety of citizens but also investor confidence and national unity. Additionally, the erosion of national cohesion through political polarization, ethnic divisions, and social inequality undermines collective progress.

Accordingly, devising and implementing robust security strategies are critical to addressing both internal and external threats. Investments in intelligence gathering, technology, and border security must be prioritized to preempt and neutralize risks like terrorism and cybercrime. Strengthening law enforcement agencies through training and resourcing will ensure they can effectively handle communal conflicts and other public safety issues.

Promoting national cohesion requires inclusive governance that respects Ghana’s ethnic and cultural diversity. Policies should focus on equitable resource allocation, fostering inter-community dialogue, and combating divisive rhetoric. Civic education campaigns emphasizing unity and shared national identity can further bolster social cohesion.

Failing to address security and cohesion risks will lead to increased instability, discouraging foreign and local investments, disrupting livelihoods, and fostering societal discontent. A candidate with clear and actionable security and inclusivity policies is essential to maintaining peace and progress.

2.10    Meritocracy in public service appointments

Finally, meritocracy in public service appointments, which entails selecting individuals for public service roles based on their qualifications, skills, experience, and proven competence rather than factors like nepotism, favoritism, political affiliation, or personal connections, is critical. Past experiences revealed that nepotism and partisan-based appointments in public service undermine institutional integrity and efficiency. When individuals are chosen based on connections rather than competence, it erodes public trust and leads to suboptimal service delivery. Meritocracy ensures that only the most qualified individuals are placed in key positions, fostering professionalism, innovation, and accountability.

Accordingly, merit-based recruitment systems must be institutionalized, with clear, transparent criteria for appointments and promotions. Independent oversight bodies should monitor recruitment processes to ensure fairness and objectivity. Public service capacity-building programs can also help equip officials with the skills needed for their roles, enhancing overall efficiency.

Furthermore, eradicating nepotism requires cultural and political shifts. Political leaders must lead by example, prioritizing national interest over partisan loyalty in appointments. Ensuring gender and regional equity in public service recruitment can further strengthen trust and inclusivity.

Without meritocracy, public institutions will remain inefficient and unaccountable, perpetuating governance failures and stalling national progress. A candidate who champions fairness and competence in public service appointments will inspire trust and catalyze institutional reforms necessary for Ghana’s development.

3.    Policy and management implications 

The ten outlined issues collectively represent the backbone of Ghana’s socio-economic and governance framework. They are interrelated and interdependent, emphasizing that addressing one challenge can create a positive ripple effect on others. For example, stabilizing the exchange rate does not just ease inflationary pressures but also enhances investor confidence, promotes business growth, and reduces unemployment. Similarly, tackling corruption fosters public trust and improves resource allocation, making it easier to implement policies that drive development in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

When a government prioritizes corruption and accountability, resources that would otherwise be misappropriated are directed toward critical sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education. This, in turn, improves food security, enhances human capital, and creates opportunities for equitable development. A stable exchange rate supports trade and business growth, while an equitable taxation system ensures that the burden of development is shared fairly, reducing disparities and promoting social cohesion.

Additionally, meritocracy in public service appointments ensures that competent individuals are at the helm of institutions, driving effective implementation of policies to stabilize the economy and ensure equitable development. Addressing sustainability issues, such as illegal mining (galamsey), safeguards natural resources, which are essential for long-term agricultural productivity, energy security, and economic diversification. These issues are interconnected, and their successful resolution requires comprehensive leadership with a clear vision for national development.

4.    Consequences of failing to elect the right candidate

Electing a leader or administration that fails to prioritize these interconnected issues would have severe implications for Ghana's development trajectory. Corruption would worsen, perpetuating a culture of impunity and eroding public trust. This would discourage foreign investment and divert resources away from critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Food insecurity would increase as a result of the continued neglect of agriculture, leaving the country overly reliant on imports and vulnerable to price fluctuations.

Economic instability would intensify due to ineffective exchange rate management, leading to currency depreciation, inflation, and high costs of living. Businesses would struggle to remain competitive, causing job losses and a decline in investor confidence. Environmental degradation would escalate if sustainability issues, including galamsey and deforestation, are not addressed. The depletion of natural resources and climate-related challenges would jeopardize long-term development and threaten livelihoods.

Moreover, neglecting equal opportunity initiatives would deepen inequality, further marginalizing vulnerable groups and entrenching poverty. Public institutions would weaken as nepotism and political favoritism erode institutional integrity, resulting in inefficiency and poor service delivery. Social unrest and national disunity could arise from growing inequalities, lack of security, and perceived governance failures, fueling public discontent and communal tensions. Globally, Ghana’s reputation would suffer, deterring development partnerships, foreign direct investment, and favorable trade agreements.

5.    Broader impact on Ghana’s future

If these challenges are not addressed by electing the right candidate, Ghana risks stagnating or regressing in key development areas. The quality of life for its citizens would deteriorate, characterized by unemployment, poor healthcare, low educational outcomes, and environmental crises. National ambitions for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) would falter, and the country could lose its competitive edge within the global economy.

The leadership chosen on December 7, 2024, will shape the nation’s trajectory. Electing a candidate capable of addressing these ten critical issues is not just about governance but about safeguarding Ghana’s future, promoting equity, and ensuring sustainable progress for generations to come. Ghanaian citizens must recognize the stakes and vote for a leader with the vision, competence, and commitment to transform the challenges into opportunities for collective national growth.

6.    Conclusion and call to action

The December 7, 2024, elections represent a pivotal moment in Ghana’s journey toward sustainable development, equity, and national progress. The choices made at the polls will determine the trajectory of the country’s governance, socio-economic stability, and quality of life for years to come. The ten critical issues outlined, ranging from corruption and accountability to effective exchange rate management, agriculture, meritocracy, and national cohesion, highlight the urgent need for visionary leadership and strategic policy implementation.

The interconnected nature of these issues underscores the importance of electing a candidate capable of addressing them holistically. A leader who prioritizes transparency, fosters inclusivity, ensures stability, and promotes sustainable practices can steer Ghana toward a future of prosperity and resilience. Conversely, the failure to address these challenges risks deepening inequality, perpetuating corruption, destabilizing the economy, and eroding public trust.

The responsibility lies with the electorate to critically assess candidates not only by their promises but by their demonstrated capacity to deliver on these priorities. By voting for leadership that embodies competence, integrity, and a clear vision for development, Ghanaians have the power to shape the nation they want. The stakes are high, and the consequences of inaction are profound. It is a collective duty to ensure that Ghana emerges stronger, more unified, and better positioned to fulfill the aspirations of its people. The future of Ghana lies in the informed choices made today.

Frank Yao Gbadago
Department of Accounting Studies Education of Faculty of Business Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Kumasi, Ghana