Accounting for NPP’s defeat in the 2024 General Election

I think the defeat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 Election signals a confluence of factors deeply rooted in Ghana’s political tradition, governance challenges, and the dynamics of voter behaviour.

This election, like many others in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, demonstrates the resilience of the two-term regime cycle, which has become a defining feature of Ghanaian politics. 

Despite the NPP’s efforts to secure a third consecutive term, the election outcome highlights the electorate’s persistent call for change after eight years of governance.  

Fatigue

At the heart of the NPP's defeat is regime fatigue. Over the years, Ghanaians have exhibited a consistent tendency to alternate power between the two dominant political parties, the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), after two terms.

This cyclical pattern is not merely a statistical anomaly but a reflection of the electorate’s desire for new leadership and fresh ideas. The 2024 Election was no different.

The NPP’s prolonged stay in power, combined with the natural weariness of governance, created an environment ripe for change, making it exceedingly difficult for the ruling party to maintain its grip on power.  

Record

Furthermore, the NPP's governance record, though notable in some areas, failed to adequately address the pressing economic challenges facing ordinary Ghanaians.

Rising inflation, increasing unemployment, and a high cost of living diminished public confidence in the government’s economic management. While the NPP touted its industrialisation agenda and digital transformation achievements, these efforts seemed distant from the everyday struggles of the electorate.

For many Ghanaians, the benefits of these policies remained intangible, fuelling perceptions of elitism and a lack of empathy for the plight of the average citizen.  

Corruption

Compounding these economic challenges were allegations of corruption within the NPP administration. Reports of financial malfeasance involving high-ranking officials and the government’s perceived reluctance to hold culprits accountable cast a shadow over the party’s credibility.

These scandals, whether real or perceived, became potent campaign tools for the opposition NDC, which framed itself as a credible alternative poised to restore transparency and accountability in governance.  

The NPP’s defeat was also a consequence of strategic missteps in its campaign. The party’s communication strategy, centred on continuity and sustaining progress, lacked the vibrancy and relatability of the opposition’s message.

While the NPP emphasised their accomplishments, their messaging failed to inspire hope or connect with the aspirations of the electorate. In contrast, the NDC’s campaign, which focused on economic recovery, job creation, and addressing social inequalities, resonated strongly with voters.

The NPP leadership’s perceived arrogance and detachment from grassroots concerns further alienated a significant portion of the electorate, eroding the party’s traditional support base.  

Apathy

Voter apathy among core NPP constituencies played a crucial role in the election outcome. Disenchanted by the party’s governance style and unresolved internal disputes, many traditional supporters stayed away from the polls.

This, coupled with the NDC’s strong grassroots mobilisation, particularly in swing regions, amplified the scale of the NPP’s defeat. The global political climate also played a subtle yet significant role.

In recent years, a wave of anti-incumbency sentiments has swept across democracies, influencing electoral outcomes in favour of opposition parties. The 2024 election in Ghana appears to have been influenced by this broader trend, as voters sought to align with the global call for change.  

In conclusion, the NPP’s defeat in the 2024 general election was not merely an outcome of one election cycle, but a culmination of governance challenges, strategic miscalculations, and the enduring nature of Ghana’s democratic traditions.

This monumental loss serves as a reminder that governance must be anchored in accountability, inclusivity and a genuine commitment to addressing the needs of all citizens.

As Ghana continues to strengthen its democracy, these lessons will remain crucial in shaping the future of political leadership in the country.

Daniel Azaglo, 
University of Ghana School of Law.
E-mail:  danielazaglo8@gmail.com