Research and data firm, Fitch Solutions, says the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) will be defeated by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the December 7 general elections.
The London-based firm which has been consistent with its forecast since last year argues that 54 percent of respondents surveyed tipped NDC’s candidate John Mahama as the winner in the upcoming presidential election.
Speaking on the Mid-Year Review for Sub Saharan Africa, Mike Kruiniger who is an Associate Director, Country Risk at Fitch Solutions explained that the current state of the economy will play a significant role in the choice of voters on December 7.
“We believe that the opposition NDC has a stronger chance of winning the upcoming general elections compared to the ruling NPP. Recent polls consistently place the NDC ahead with the most recent survey showing 54 % of respondents favoring the NDC.
“In addition, multiple surveys have shown that economic management and job creation are going to be the most important issues during the election for voters which we believe will put the ruling NPP at a disadvantage given the economic challenges that the country has faced over the last couple of years.”
Mr. Kruiniger also explained that the policy direction of the country will not change under the NDC government.
According to him, a Mahama-led administration is also likely to continue with the International Monetary Fund programme initiated by the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government.
“In terms of what a government change will mean for the economy, we think that policy direction under a likely NDC government will not largely change.
“The NDC will most likely stick to Ghana’s IMF programme particularly as the party has shown commitment in the past to international agreements and obligations. So in summary, we expect policy continuation in Ghana despite a likely government change,” he stressed.
Myjoyonline.com
