From triumph to defeat: a qualitative analysis of the new Patriotic party’s (NPP) 2024 Electoral loss in Ghana: Exploring the Political, Economic and Social Dynamics

This study examines the 2024 electoral defeat of Ghana’s New Patriotic Party (NPP), exploring the political, economic, and social dynamics that contributed to this pivotal event. Using Social Choice Theory as a guiding framework and a qualitative research approach, the study incorporates data from interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. The findings reveal that economic hardships, such as high inflation, unemployment, and currency depreciation, significantly undermined public confidence in the NPP’s leadership. Furthermore, the party’s heavy reliance on legacy achievements, particularly the Free SHS initiative, failed to resonate with voters’ immediate concerns. In contrast, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) capitalized on public dissatisfaction by effectively mobilizing grassroots support and leveraging social media. The increasing influence of urban youth also played a crucial role in shaping the electoral outcome.Based on these insights, the study recommends policy reforms aimed at addressing inflation, creating jobs, and promoting equitable development. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for improved communication strategies centred on transparency and voter engagement, youth-focused programs to enhance employment and skills development, and investments in regional infrastructure to ensure balanced growth.