A total of 39 aspirants have picked up nomination forms from the Electoral Commission (EC), signaling a highly competitive race for Ghana’s 2024 presidential election. The field includes 12 registered political parties and 27 independent candidates, all of whom have until September 13 to submit their completed forms to the EC.
This surge in aspirants has drawn significant attention from political analysts, who are keen to see how the crowded field will shape the upcoming election. The EC has set the filing fee for presidential candidates at GH¢100,000, with a reduced fee of GH¢75,000 for female candidates and persons with disabilities.
The number of candidates this year far surpasses previous elections, with 12 contenders in the 2020 presidential race. The EC has assured the public that all aspirants will have a fair opportunity to contest, pledging to conduct a transparent and credible process.
Among the prominent candidates are former Trade and Industry Minister Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen and former presidential staffer Samuel Apea-Danquah. Notable independent aspirants include businessman George Twum-Barima-Adu and medical doctor Dr. Agnes Ayisha.
The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has already selected Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as its flagbearer, while the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is fielding former President John Mahama.
With a record number of aspirants, the 2024 election promises to be one of the most competitive in Ghana’s history. The EC has called for a peaceful and respectful campaign period and is committed to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent election process.