A recent poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics indicates a tightening race in the upcoming 2024 presidential elections, with John Dramani Mahama (JDM) maintaining a lead over Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
According to the poll results released today, JDM commands 51.1% of the voter support, while DMB secures 38.2%.
The poll highlights a shift compared to April 2024, where JDM led with a slightly wider margin. In the event of a runoff, the poll suggests JDM would continue to maintain an advantage with 52% compared to DMB’s 42%, with 6% of voters remaining undecided.
Notably, the survey reveals significant gains for Nana Kwame Bediako (NKB), who garnered 4.6% of the vote, and Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten (AKK) with 5.3%. Both candidates show varying levels of support across different regions, reflecting a dynamic electoral landscape.
In a surprising turn, NKB has made notable strides in the Central, Ashanti, Eastern, and Volta regions, leading in constituencies like Abura Asebu Kwamankese and Kade. Meanwhile, JDM’s support in the Central region has seen a decline from 51% to 39%, while DMB’s popularity in the Ashanti region has increased to 66%.
The poll also delves into voter sentiments regarding the country’s direction, with 63% expressing concerns that Ghana is heading in the wrong direction. Additionally, a significant portion of voters, 47%, feel that their standard of living has worsened compared to a year ago.
Regarding public confidence in institutions crucial to the electoral process, there has been a decline in trust in both the Ghana Police Service and the Electoral Commission. Confidence in the police’s ability to maintain order during elections dropped from 64% to 58%, while trust in the Electoral Commission’s capacity to organize free and fair elections decreased from 59% to 53%.
Economic issues continue to dominate voter concerns, with 73% prioritizing the economy, followed closely by jobs at 69%, and education at 50%.
The poll also assessed voter attitudes towards government policies and inducements. While 55% of voters support the “One student One Tablet” policy, a majority indicated that such initiatives are unlikely to sway their electoral decisions.