Ghana: Veteran leader seeks presidential comeback amid economic crisis

Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, a 65-year-old political veteran with experience across all governmental levels, campaigns for a return to leadership amid national economic challenges. His political journey, shaped by personal experiences including his father’s imprisonment during a military coup, has included roles as parliamentarian, minister, vice-president, and president.

Mahama’s diverse background encompasses academic achievements and literary acclaim, including a well-received memoir, praised by prominent African writers. His previous presidency, from 2012 to 2017, saw significant infrastructure development but faced criticism over economic management and corruption allegations.

Despite setbacks including power shortages that earned him the nickname “Mr. Dumsor” and controversial procurement deals, analysts note his strengths as a pragmatic communicator. His administration’s corruption perception ratings, while problematic, compared favorably to subsequent governance.

Mahama, currently leading the opposition, balances political activism with family life and cultural engagement, maintaining interests in literature and music. His campaign emphasizes his extensive experience while acknowledging past challenges, promising different outcomes under renewed leadership.

The former president, who attended the prestigious Achimota boarding school and studied in Moscow, brings international perspective to his leadership approach. His campaign focuses on rescuing Ghana from what he describes as the wrong direction, though critics question whether his past performance qualifies him for another term.

Mahama’s main challenger in Ghana’s presidential élections, scheduled for December, is the current vice-president, Mahamudu Bawumia.

The outgoing President, Nana Akufo-Addo, first elected in 2016, is coming to the end of his second and final four-year term.