Ghanaian parties' mixed records face 2020 scrutiny

Significance

With general elections 18 months away, the economy is under intensified scrutiny as campaigning begins in earnest. Former President John Mahama (2012-17) was recently endorsed as the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC)'s presidential candidate, while incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) is expected to be formally backed by his party later this year.

Impacts

• Mahama's candidacy could hinder the NDC's attempts to regain control of parliament.
• NDC- and NPP-affiliated vigilante groups could grow more problematic as inter- and intra-party conflicts increase.
• Increased election-related violence could undermine Ghana’s strong reputation for democratic stability.