By Morkporkpor Anku
Accra, Dec. 1, GNA – The economy, infrastructural development, education, unemployment opportunities, corruption, Democracy, Peace, and Security are key factors that will Influence voter decisions in the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
The Centre for Development Research and Agro-Innovation (CEDRAI) comprehensively analyzed the critical factors shaping Ghana’s 2024 elections.
Drawing on insights from a survey of 3,531 respondents across all 16 regions, this report provides a deep dive into the pressing issues that will influence voter decisions.
The economy dominated voter concerns, with inflation, exchange rates, and taxation being pivotal.
The survey said political parties must present actionable plans for economic recovery, including reducing inflation, stabilizing the currency, and fostering job creation.
In the area of infrastructure Development, improved access to roads, schools, and healthcare remained central to voter expectations and highlighting initiatives to address gaps in underserved regions is crucial for voter trust.
On employment Opportunities, high unemployment, especially among the youth, was a critical concern and policies targeting agriculture, technology, and manufacturing were likely to attract support.
It said mixed reactions to the Free Senior High School programme underline the need for balancing access with quality reforms, focused improvements in tertiary education and reducing overcrowding in schools were key voter priorities.
According to the survey governance integrity and anti-corruption measures remained significant and parties must outline clear frameworks for accountability and transparency.
It said stability was valued but ranks lower than economic and social issues in this election cycle.
The report said in the Presidential race, the NDC’s lead of 50.40.0er cent against the NPP of 41.80 per cent reflected significant dissatisfaction among sampled registered voters with the current administration under the NPP.
It said voter discontent centered on economic challenges with high inflation, rising cost of living, and limited job opportunities.
On infrastructure and social issues, the delays in essential projects and inadequate public services, including healthcare and education and allegations of government inefficiency and corruption have eroded trust in the NPP.
The survey said the NDC had gained traction by focusing on change and systemic reforms, addressing voter concerns about improving poor economic performance, reassuring them of tackling corruption, and creating jobs have resonated with voters.
However, this lead does not guarantee victory, as the party must maintain a cohesive and inclusive message to secure widespread appeal.
It said for the NPP, recovering from this deficit required addressing governance failures, presenting detailed economic recovery plans, and reinforcing achievements in infrastructure and development.
On the Parliamentary Race, a tight contest based on sampled constituencies, the parliamentary contest was neck-and-neck, with the NDC at 49 per cent and the NPP at 46 per cent.
It said swing regions and undecided voters would be decisive.
The report said the NDC’s current advantage reflected its resonance with voter frustrations, but sustained efforts to connect with swing voters and undecided demographics were necessary for both major parties.
GNA