In just a few days, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party, will face former President John Mahama and ten others in Ghana’s general election.
For many political watchers, Bawumia’s ascension to the New Patriotic Party flagbearer position considered an Akan party is historic in many respects.
The late Aliu Mahama, a Muslim from the Northern Region, who, like Bawumia, was a vice president under ex-president John Kufuor, lost miserably in a 17-person race in 2007. For many, it was a distant dream for a northern candidate to represent the New Patriotic Party as its flagbearer.
Yet, in November 2023, delegates of the New Patriotic Party reposed a resounding confidence in the current vice president, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, by electing him as the flagbearer of the NPP.
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is undoubtedly a prominent figure in the country’s political landscape and one of the leading candidates in the upcoming presidential elections. With a background in economics and finance, Bawumia has positioned himself as a technocrat capable of steering Ghana towards economic stability and growth. His tenure as Vice President has been marked by significant economic initiatives, including implementing the digital addressing system and introducing mobile money interoperability.
From political outsider to second-in-command, Mahamudu Bawumia could become Ghana’s first Muslim president after the December 7 election.
For a vice president role that merely deputises the president when he is out of the jurisdiction, Dr Bawumia is considered the most active vice president in the Fourth Republic.
DUBAWA has gathered the incumbent’s profile to provide a balanced view of Dr Bawumia, drawing on credible sources to support the analysis.
Bawumia’s Credentials
According to his website profile, Bawumia was born in Tamale on Oct. 7, 1963, and hails from the Northern Region of Ghana.
He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from Buckingham University, UK, a Master of Science Degree in Development Economics from Oxford University, UK, and a PhD in Economics from Simon Fraser University, Canada. He has held academic positions as Assistant Professor of Economics at Baylor University, USA; Visiting Scholar at the University of British Columbia, Canada; and Visiting Senior Research Associate at the Centre for the Study of African Economies, Oxford University, UK. He has also served as a Visiting Professor of Economic Governance at Central University, Ghana.
As an Economist and Banker, Dr Bawumia has had a prestigious career, which includes serving as the Deputy Governor of Ghana’s Central Bank from 2006 to 2008 and the Resident Representative of the African Development Bank.
Bawumia later became the Vice Presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2016 elections.
Personality Traits
Dr Bawumia is often described as analytical and pragmatic, traits that resonate with his background in economics. His ability to articulate complex economic issues in unintelligible language has earned him respect among supporters and critics. However, some observers have noted a tendency toward being overly technocratic and theoretical, which may alienate voters seeking a more personable connection.
His strengths include a deep understanding of economic policy and a calm demeanour in public discourse. Conversely, critics argue that his technocratic approach can sometimes lack the emotional resonance necessary for political leadership, particularly in times of crisis.
Values and Beliefs
Bawumia’s political philosophy is rooted in the belief that economic growth and technological advancement are paramount for national development. He champions policies aimed at digital transformation, financial inclusion, and economic resilience.
His moral compass is influenced by a strong sense of duty to his constituents and a belief in accountability and transparency in governance. This is reflected in his public statements on anti-corruption measures and good governance.
Digitalisation
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has championed a “digitalisation mantra” as a cornerstone of his vision for national transformation. His commitment to these values is evident in his advocacy for the Ghana Digital Transformation Agenda, which seeks to leverage technology for improved governance and service delivery.
Initiatives such as the Ghana Card, mobile money interoperability, and digitising public records underscore his commitment to creating a modern, tech-driven economy. While supporters hail these efforts as innovative steps toward development, critics argue their impact on addressing fundamental socioeconomic challenges remains limited.
Communication Style
Dr Bawumia’s communication style is characterised by clarity and precision. He is known for his ability to break down complex economic concepts into digestible information for the general public. His speeches often incorporate data and statistics, reinforcing his image as a knowledgeable candidate. For instance, during a recent address, he cited Afrobarometer data indicating that 65% of Ghanaians are concerned about the economy, effectively aligning his campaign message with public sentiment.
Bawumia tends to be composed in media interactions, often employing a diplomatic tone even when faced with challenging questions. This approach has generally fostered a positive image, although some critics argue that he occasionally shies away from confrontation.
Interpersonal Relationships
Bawumia’s tenure as vice president involved working closely with various sectors, including finance, education, and technology, to implement policies aimed at national development. His colleagues perceive him as approachable, which enhances team dynamics within the NPP.
His public engagements reveal a candidate who values interaction with constituents. Bawumia frequently participates in town hall meetings and community events, demonstrating a willingness to listen to ordinary Ghanaians’ concerns.
Crisis Management
Throughout his political career, Dr Bawumia has faced various challenges, particularly regarding Ghana’s economic difficulties exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. His responses have typically been methodical, focusing on data-driven solutions. For example, he played a crucial role in the government’s economic recovery plans, including fiscal measures to stabilise the economy.
His adaptability has been evident in his campaign strategies, particularly as he navigates the complexities of Ghana’s political landscape.
Public Perception
Public perception of Dr Bawumia is largely positive, particularly among NPP supporters.
Media portrayal has been mixed, with some outlets highlighting his accomplishments while others critique his perceived detachment from Ghanaians’ everyday struggles. This dichotomy reflects his broader challenges in appealing to a diverse electorate.
What are the chances of Bawumia’s election as president?
Although 12 hopefuls are vying for the presidency, only two have a realistic chance of winning. Since the return of multiparty politics in 1992, only candidates from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) or the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have won.
The two front-runners are Mahamudu Bawumia (NPP) and John Mahama (NDC). The Oxford-educated economist, who has been Akufo-Addo’s vice-president for eight years, is 61 years old and has the potential to become the nation’s first Muslim president.
The former deputy governor of the central bank gained a reputation for his financial know-how. However, that might also be his downfall, as he has been heavily criticised for overseeing Ghana’s descent into its worst economic crisis in decades.
Main challenges
The economy and the perception of corruption are some of the biggest challenges Dr Bawumia would contend with before the elections. Several surveys have pointed to economy and unemployment as key dominant issues voters will consider as they go into the polls. The dual toxic challenge of the global pandemic, coupled with the Russia and Ukraine war, has been an albatross on the neck of Bawumia and his government. Inflation increased to 52.8% in February 2022 but has taken a tumble to a little over 21% in 2024, which is still high. The cedi has also taken a major hit, affecting prices of goods and services across the country. While Dr Bawumia will pant under these bad economic indicators, his consolation will be the number of road infrastructure, education, and the Free SHS projects the government has executed.
Conclusion
With the December election almost at hand, who will win the election remains to be seen.
