The Institute of Progressive Governance (IPG), led by a distinguished team of academics and researchers, has presented the results of its latest research polls, which reveal a favorable outlook for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ahead of Ghana’s 2024 general elections.
The press conference, held in Accra, was led by Prof. Isaac Boadi, Associate Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Finance, alongside Dr. Eric Boachie Yiadom, a lecturer in the Faculty of Accounting and Finance, and Dr. George Domfeh, a statistician and data quality assurance specialist.
Their research indicates that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate, holds a significant lead in the race for the presidency. Additionally, the data suggests that NPP parliamentary candidates are likely to secure a majority in the next Parliament.
Prof. Isaac Boadi explained that the research, conducted across all 16 regions of Ghana, sampled 15,000 respondents representing various demographics. According to the results:
Dr. Bawumia has an estimated lead of 7 percentage points over his closest rival, former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The NPP is projected to retain its parliamentary majority, with strong performances in traditional strongholds and swing constituencies.
Key regions showing significant support for the NPP include the Ashanti, Eastern, and Northern Regions.
Prof. Boadi attributes Dr. Bawumia’s appeal to his focus on digitalization, economic management, and his efforts to bridge the gap between the party’s traditional base and floating voters. He stated, “Dr. Bawumia’s campaign resonates with many Ghanaians due to his track record in economic policy and his ability to articulate a clear vision for the future.”
Dr. George Domfeh, who oversaw data collection and quality assurance, emphasized the reliability of the polling methodology. “Our data was gathered using randomized sampling techniques to ensure representativeness, and the margin of error is within acceptable limits,” he noted.
The findings have elicited diverse reactions from political stakeholders. The NPP welcomed the results as evidence of public confidence in their leadership and policies. However, the NDC has dismissed the research as unreflective of the true sentiments of the electorate.
With few days to the December 7 election, the IPG's polls add another layer of intensity to an already closely watched race. Both major political parties are expected to ramp up their campaign efforts to secure undecided voters, who could be pivotal in determining the outcome.
The 2024 elections are shaping up to be one of Ghana’s most competitive contests, with the stakes high for both the presidency and parliamentary control.