The financial stakes of politics in Ghana reached new heights in the 2024 parliamentary elections, as each New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate reportedly spent an average of GH₵10 million.
This figure, disclosed by Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, Member of Parliament for Anyaa-Sowutuom, highlights the growing cost of political participation in Ghana.
Speaking on Channel One TV on December 14, 2024, Dr. Adomako Kissi revealed the significant investments made by candidates in both primaries and the national elections.
“On average, every NPP Member of Parliament who went into this battle may have spent close to GH₵10 million. They had faith and believed they could win,” he said.
However, the heavy spending did not guarantee success, as many candidates faced defeat despite their financial commitments. Dr. Adomako Kissi attributed the high expenditure to the increasing demands of constituents, coupled with ambitious promises made during campaigns.
He noted, “Many aspirants and candidates invest significantly, intending to serve their constituents, but face the tough reality of unmet expectations and electoral losses.”
The NPP’s financial commitments did not translate into electoral victory. The party experienced a significant decline in its parliamentary presence, securing only 80 seats compared to the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) 185.
Additionally, NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, lost to NDC’s John Dramani Mahama by over 1.6 million votes.
This outcome has sparked discussions about the sustainability of political financing in Ghana, with calls for reforms to address the high cost of running for office.
