The December 7, 2024, general elections marked a watershed moment in Ghana’s democratic journey. With a stunning electoral sweep, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), under the leadership of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, returned to the Flagstaff House, not by a narrow edge, but with an overwhelming mandate. This wasn’t just a political victory; it was a public declaration. Ghanaians, disillusioned after eight years under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration, voted loud and clear: it’s time to reset the nation.
A Mandate Without Precedent
The NDC’s campaign message ‘Resetting Ghana’ struck a powerful chord across the country. Years of economic hardship, deepening inequality, and institutional decay had left many yearning for real change. The NDC didn’t just win the presidency; it tore through NPP strongholds, flipping seats once considered untouchable.
Constituencies like Akwatia and Nsawam Adoagyiri fell, contributing to the NDC’s impressive 183 parliamentary seats. With four independents aligning with the ruling party and a successful rerun in Ablekuma North, the NDC commands 184 seats, granting it full legislative control and the rare ability to pursue constitutional amendments. This is a level of political dominance Ghana hasn’t seen in a generation.
The Double Edge of Victory
But let’s be honest: this kind of sweeping victory cuts both ways. With great power comes even greater responsibility. Ghanaians haven’t just handed the NDC a blank cheque; they’re watching every signature.
So far, the Mahama-led administration has made all the right noises: a shift toward inclusiveness, revitalised social programs, and a new emphasis on job creation and sustainable development. But Ghanaians have heard promises before. The challenge now is to convert political capital into a real, measurable transformation. The honeymoon won’t last forever.
The Fight Against Corruption: A National Litmus Test
If there’s one issue that could define this administration, for better or worse, it’s corruption. The past eight years were riddled with high-profile scandals, blatant impunity, and the sense that justice was on indefinite leave. The NDC inherits not just a government, but a credibility crisis.
This moment demands swift, visible, and impartial action. Investigations into alleged corruption under the previous regime must be thorough, transparent, and free from political vendetta. But more than that, the NDC must lead a systemic overhaul: strengthen the Office of the Special Prosecutor, empower EOCO, digitise government services, reform procurement systems, and enact serious whistleblower protections. Justice must not only be done, but it must also be seen to be done.
Galamsey: No More Excuses
Illegal mining, or galamsey, remains an environmental and national security emergency. Rivers are poisoned, farms destroyed, and communities hollowed out by chronic disease and economic desperation. Despite repeated promises, little has changed. The clock is ticking.
The NDC must pivot to radical action. This means zero tolerance, no sacred cows. Enforce the law, deploy modern surveillance tech, dismantle the criminal networks, and support communities with real alternative livelihoods: from sustainable agriculture to ecotourism and responsible small-scale mining. Parliament’s support is key. The tools are in hand; use them.
Constitutional Reform: Use Power, But Use It Right
With 184 MPs plus 4 Independent MPs, the NDC holds the rare power to amend the Constitution. This is no small matter. It must be handled with wisdom, restraint, and national consensus, not partisanship.
Priorities should include deepening decentralisation, enhancing electoral integrity, and fortifying the independence of key institutions. This is a chance to reset the constitutional framework to serve future generations, not entrench political power. History won’t judge the amendments alone; it will judge the motive behind them.
Resetting Ghana Means Staying Grounded
Ghanaians are hopeful, but skeptical. The burden of proof now rests entirely on the NDC. Success won’t be measured by just words. It’ll be measured by food on the table, jobs created, rivers running clean, and public institutions people can trust.
The Mahama-led administration must maintain honest, two-way communication with the public. Civil society, journalists, and everyday citizens must be seen as partners. Transparency is not optional; it’s the only currency that buys lasting trust.
Conclusion: A Rare Chance to Rebuild
The 2024 elections handed the NDC more than a victory; it gave the party a historic mission: to rebuild trust in leadership and set Ghana on a new course. An absolute majority and massive goodwill are rare gifts in our politics. But they are perishable and conditional.
Now is the time for bold, and ethical governance. Ghana is ready for a reset. And the NDC must rise to the occasion, not for its glory, but for every Ghanaian who dares to believe in a better tomorrow.
