Ghanaian actress and entrepreneur Lydia Forson recently shared her thoughts in an interview with the BBC, discussing a notable shift in the political landscape of Ghana. She pointed out that the Ghanaian electorate is gradually moving away from voting along political or tribal lines. Forson highlighted that voters are increasingly making decisions based on the competence and policies of candidates, rather than being influenced solely by party allegiance or ethnic considerations. This evolving trend suggests a growing maturity in Ghana’s democracy, where voters are prioritizing leaders who can address their needs and bring meaningful change. In a recent interview with BBC’s James Copnall on Newsday on December 9, 2024, Lydia Forson discussed the growing discernment of Ghanaian voters, particularly in light of the December 7 election, in which the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP) was defeated. She emphasized that Ghanaians are increasingly voting based on issues rather than political or tribal affiliations, a trend that reflects their desire for more accountable leadership.
Forson pointed out that accountability has become a major point of contention, especially among young people. She explained, “Accountability is one of the main things a lot of young people are angry about,” noting that while global crises like economic challenges exist, Ghanaians feel the impact more acutely due to local factors. She added that frustration is growing among the populace, with many feeling that their voices are not being heard, despite their efforts to speak out and protest.
When asked about the priorities for the incoming government, Forson suggested that the new leadership must focus on the real concerns of the people. She stressed the importance of addressing the needs and aspirations of ordinary Ghanaians to make life better for them, emphasizing the need for a government that listens and responds effectively to the challenges faced by its citizens. Lydia Forson, in her interview with BBC’s Newsday on December 9, 2024, emphasized the importance of having a leadership that listens to the people. She explained that when citizens are upset about issues and express their concerns, a leadership that dismisses their frustrations or prevents them from speaking out creates a significant problem. Forson highlighted that this election was not just about political parties but about the people’s desire for change. She noted that Ghanaian voters are becoming increasingly discerning, no longer voting based on tribal loyalty or party affiliation. Instead, they are focused on whether the government will deliver on its promises. Forson stated, “Are you going to deliver, and if you can’t, we are going to hold you to your promises.”
She also shared how the economic challenges in Ghana have personally affected her business. As a producer of natural hair and skin care products, Forson sources most of her ingredients locally, but some are imported, meaning she has to pay in foreign currencies like dollars and pounds. With the depreciation of the cedi, her production costs have risen, making it harder to create jobs and sustain her business. Forson noted that while she tries to keep costs manageable for consumers, the economic situation makes it challenging. She added that even if one is doing well, the effects of the economic downturn are still felt, especially when producing goods that may be seen as non-essential or luxury items. Lydia Forson also shared a personal perspective on the economic struggles, noting how the difficulties in the country extend beyond her own business to affect her entire family. “And you have families. I have family in the village who also depend on you, and the harder things get, the more they depend on you,” she said, underscoring the broader implications of the economic situation for everyday Ghanaians.
Forson, known for being one of the few creatives in Ghana to speak out on societal issues, was joined on the show by rapper M.anifest, who also expressed his views on the election results. M.anifest attributed the defeat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to the “anger” and “hunger” of the people, suggesting that the electorate’s frustrations were a key factor in the election outcome.
Although the official results of the December 7 Presidential and Parliamentary election have not yet been announced by the Electoral Commission of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the incumbent NPP, has already conceded defeat. In a public address from his residence shortly after the election results began to trickle in, Bawumia acknowledged the victory of former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He expressed gratitude to Ghanaians for the opportunity to serve as vice president and as a presidential candidate, signaling a peaceful transition despite the electoral loss. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP), acknowledged the provisional results from the party’s internal collation, which showed a victory for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its candidate, former President John Dramani Mahama. Despite this, he called for patience as the Electoral Commission has urged citizens to await the official announcement of the results.
Lydia Forson’s interview on BBC’s Newsday provided insightful commentary on the shifting dynamics of Ghanaian politics and the growing frustration among the electorate, with a particular focus on accountability and the economic hardships faced by many.
