Legacy of leadership: Political landscape and the road ahead

As Ghana prepares for its upcoming presidential election, it is crucial to reflect on the legacies of the five presidents who have shaped the country’s democratic governance within the Fourth Republic, spanning from 1993 to 2024. 

Each of these leaders brought a wealth of experience to the presidential office, having previously held significant public positions that prepared them for the highest office in the land.

Their diverse experiences and contributions have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s trajectory. These reflections will serve as a valuable guide for voters in making informed decisions as they embark on the important task of choosing the next leader to steer the country forward.

Short profile of past leaders

The inaugural president of the Fourth Republic, Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings (1993-2001), held a distinguished military career and served as the head of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) and Ghana’s head of state from 1981 until the establishment of the Fourth Republic in 1993.

He emerged victorious in both the 1992 and 1996 presidential elections and governed as a democratic leader from 1993 to 2001.

Mr John Agyekum Kufuor (2001-2009), the Fourth Republic’s second president, previously served as a Member of Parliament (MP) during the Second (1969–72) and Third (1979–81) Republics.

He also held the positions of Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs during the Second Republic and Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Third Republic. Additionally, he served as the Local Government Minister under the PNDC.

The third president, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills (2009-2012), previously held the position of Vice President under Jerry John Rawlings from 1997 to 2001. He also served as the Acting Commissioner of Ghana’s Internal Revenue Service from 1988 to 1993 and was a law professor at the University of Ghana.

Mr John Dramani Mahama (2012-2017), the fourth president, served as Vice President under Prof. John Evans Atta Mills from 2009 to 2012 and held the position of Member of Parliament from 1997 to 2009.

Additionally, he served as the Deputy Minister of Communications from April 1997 to November 1998 and subsequently became the substantive Minister from November 1998 to 2001.

He assumed office in July 2012 following the unfortunate passing of Prof. Mills and went on to win the 2012 elections, serving as president from 2013 to 2017.

The fifth and current president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (2017-present), also held significant public offices before assuming the presidency.

He served as an MP from 1997 to 2009, held the position of Attorney General from 2001 to 2003, and served as the Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2003 to 2007. Notably, he is also a distinguished lawyer by profession.

Next presidential election

As Ghana prepares for its next presidential election which is about 44 days from now, voters face the crucial task of identifying the most qualified candidate to lead the nation forward. Drawing from the rich tapestry of experiences and expertise exhibited by past and present political leaders,

Ghanaian voters should prioritise qualities such as integrity, exemplary leadership, a well-defined vision for national development and a steadfast commitment to addressing the economic challenges facing the country currently.

Additionally, candidates who offer tangible strategies for fostering economic growth, job creation, advancing infrastructure and ensuring sustainable resource management should be given due consideration.

Again, those who provide practical steps to address the issue of galamsey and other pressing issues facing the country should be our favourites. 

In light of historical precedents set by former leaders and the prevailing economic landscape, it is important for voters to evaluate the candidates’ comprehension of both domestic and global economic dynamics.

This discerning approach will ensure that the elected leader is poised to navigate the complexities of the current socio-economic situation of the country and steer Ghana towards a prosperous future.

By prioritising these key attributes and policies in their decision-making process, Ghanaian voters can contribute to the selection of a leader who is well-equipped to address the nation’s challenges and champion its progress.

Policy positions

Thus, it is important for Ghanaian voters to be aware of at least the profile and policy positions of their own top three candidates among the 13 presidential candidates in the upcoming election.

As Ghana prepares for the crucial presidential election, it is important for voters to carefully evaluate the policy positions and qualifications of the candidates.

By prioritising qualities such as integrity, leadership acumen, experience and a clear vision for national development, Ghanaian voters can contribute to the selection of a leader poised to address the nation’s challenges and champion its progress.

The forthcoming election represents a pivotal moment in Ghana’s history, where the collective decision of the electorate will shape the trajectory of the nation for years to come.

Thus, the 2024 election is not merely about the political party, ethnicity or religion but about who will have the power to shape Ghana’s future for the next four to eight years.

The writer is a Political Scientist.