How the New Patriotic Party Lost Power in an Unprecedented Way to the NDC in Election 2024

The 2024 general election in Ghana will be remembered as one of the most unexpected political shifts in the country’s history. After nearly a decade in power, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) suffered a shocking defeat at the hands of their long-time rivals, the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The events leading up to this unprecedented change of leadership reveal a combination of factors that culminated in a political earthquake, reshaping the nation’s political landscape.

The Prelude: Growing Discontent

For years, the NPP, led by President Nana Akufo-Addo, had been the dominant political force, having won two consecutive terms since 2016. However, the atmosphere heading into the 2024 elections was markedly different. While the party had delivered some key reforms and infrastructure projects, the country’s economic struggles and rising public dissatisfaction started to overshadow their achievements.

The NPP faced severe criticism over economic challenges such as high inflation, an increasingly burdensome cost of living, rising unemployment, and a weakening currency. Many Ghanaians, particularly in urban centers, felt that despite the government’s promises, the economic situation had deteriorated, leading to widespread frustration.

Additionally, allegations of corruption and inefficiency in managing state resources tarnished the NPP’s image. The handling of key issues like the power crisis, and the controversy surrounding the government’s loans and fiscal policies, further eroded the trust of many voters.

The NDC’s Revival: A Resilient Opposition

On the other side, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which had been out of power for a significant period, seized the moment. Led by former President John Dramani Mahama, who had once been the face of NDC governance, the party capitalized on the growing dissatisfaction with the NPP. Mahama’s campaign framed the NPP as a government that had failed to deliver on its promises and mismanaged the economy.

The NDC promised a return to policies that prioritized the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians—jobs, education, healthcare, and economic growth. They promised to stabilize the economy, lower the cost of living, and tackle corruption head-on. Mahama’s message resonated deeply with those who were struggling financially, as well as the youth who felt that their future was uncertain under the NPP’s economic stewardship.

Another factor that worked in favor of the NDC was their ability to unify the opposition. Various political factions, civil society organizations, and grassroots movements rallied behind the NDC’s message, creating an impressive coalition of forces that effectively challenged the NPP’s dominance.

The Unforeseen Crisis: Allegations and Scandals

As Election Day drew near, the NPP’s situation became even more precarious due to a series of internal and external factors that dealt significant blows to their reputation.

Allegations of electoral fraud from within the party’s ranks emerged, with reports