Ghanaian Political Parties Consider Female Vice-Presidential Candidates

By News Ghana 

June 8, 2024

As Ghana gears up for its December elections, political parties are under scrutiny for their leadership choices, with a notable focus on gender representation.

Women make up 51% of the electorate, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is facing important decisions regarding its leadership structure, including the possibility of selecting a female running mate. Such a move would align Ghana with numerous countries that have embraced female leaders at the highest levels of government.

Countries with female presidents include Dominica, Barbados, Georgia, Greece, and Honduras. In Africa, notable female leaders include Joyce Banda, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and Sahle-Work Zewde.

Advocates for increased women’s representation in political leadership argue that it is crucial for Africa’s socioeconomic development. They believe that women bring unique perspectives and solutions to address issues such as poverty and disease.

Despite progress in various fields, Ghana’s political arena still presents challenges for women. However, examples from other African nations demonstrate that gender diversity in leadership is both achievable and beneficial.

The call for a female running mate in Ghana goes beyond symbolism; it is rooted in a broader agenda of women’s empowerment and equitable representation. The selection of a female running mate by the NPP could be a transformative step towards inclusive governance, reflecting the changing dynamics and aspirations of Ghanaian society.

As the December elections approach, the decisions made by political parties, particularly the NPP, regarding their leadership structures will be closely watched. These decisions have the potential to reshape Ghana’s political landscape, setting a precedent for future elections and the country’s governance model.