President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaians to uphold the nation’s reputation as a model of democratic stability in Africa as the country heads to the polls on Saturday, 7 December 2024.

In his final address to the nation on Friday, 6 December 2024, the President stressed the importance of safeguarding Ghana’s democratic legacy and maintaining peace during and after the elections.

“We should never forget that the flame of freedom needs to be protected and constantly refuelled. Elections are at the heart of a democracy, and we qualify to be counted among mature democracies after eight successful elections,” he stated.

He lauded Ghana’s democratic achievements, noting: “It is not surprising that our country is held up as a beacon of democratic stability in Africa. We should be justly proud of this and do everything we can to protect and uphold this status.”

The upcoming elections mark Ghana’s ninth under the Fourth Republic and are regarded as a critical juncture in the nation’s democratic history.

The presidential contest features Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former President John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in a tightly contested race.

The polls are set against the backdrop of significant economic challenges, including post-pandemic recovery, high unemployment, rising inflation, and mounting public debt.