Ghanaians head to the polls in a highly contested election

The upcoming presidential election in Ghana is expected to be a tight contest between two main candidates: Mahamudu Bawumia, the current Vice President of the ruling New Patriotic Party, and John Mahama, the former President. Opinion polls indicate that voters are closely divided between the two, with Bawumia and Mahama each garnering significant support. The election is also being influenced by other issues, such as high unemployment and a crisis over illegal gold mining. Additionally, two fringe candidates are running as independents: Alan Kyerematen, a former trade and industry minister, and Nana Bediako, a businessman. The election marks a significant shift in the country's politics, as the northern region, which has historically been disadvantaged, is expected to play a crucial role in determining the outcome.