President John Dramani Mahama’s approval ratings have reportedly declined. James Kwabena Bomfeh, CEO of the Centre for Citizenship, Constitutional and Electoral Systems (CenCES), attributes this to public frustration. He noted growing discontent over economic conditions and unfulfilled expectations following the 2024 general elections.
This observation follows a recent Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) survey. The survey reportedly indicates a decrease in public approval of the President’s performance. Bomfeh stated that these findings align with current public sentiment, reflecting a period of significant national challenges.
Ghana’s economic narrative often presents a mixed picture. While official statistics may show improvements, these do not always mirror the daily struggles of ordinary citizens. For example, the Ghana cedi has experienced stability against major currencies, particularly the US dollar. Despite this, the prices of essential goods in the market have not reduced accordingly. This disconnect creates a divergence between macroeconomic indicators and the cost of living for Ghanaians.
James Kwabena Bomfeh emphasised this gap between official economic figures and household realities. He said, “You have the cedi doing very well against the major currencies, particularly the dollar, and yet prices of items on the market have not come down in response.” He questioned the reasons for this, highlighting that this dichotomy largely shapes public perception of government effectiveness. Rising utility costs and stagnant wages have further intensified public dissatisfaction across the country.
Citizens prioritize their daily cost of living over technical economic data like exchange rate stability or inflation trends. Unmet promises from the 2024 election campaign have also contributed to declining public trust in the current administration. Bomfeh stressed that these factors are more influential than positive economic reports.
Despite the challenges, Bomfeh suggests the government can still improve its standing. A cabinet reshuffle could be an opportunity to revitalise governance and address public concerns more effectively. Such a move could introduce new energy and responsiveness into key government positions.
He urged the Presidency to consider the IEA’s findings and broader public feedback seriously. Failing to respond decisively could lead to deeper dissatisfaction among the populace. This situation could further challenge the government’s efforts to maintain economic stability and public confidence in the coming months. Decision-makers will need to closely monitor public sentiment and economic indicators to navigate these complex dynamics.
The government’s response to these approval ratings will be crucial for its future political capital. Addressing the fundamental issue of the cost of living remains a primary concern for many Ghanaians. Furthermore, the perceived disconnect between economic data and ground realities requires careful communication and policy adjustments. Both investors and citizens will watch how the administration tackles these issues. Efforts to bridge this gap could redefine the government's relationship with the electorate.