The value of political campaign promises: Impact on citizens, the public, and private sectors in Ghana

By Prof. Samuel Lartey

Introduction

In Ghana, the election cycle brings with it a torrent of promises and manifestos as politicians vie for the favor of the electorate. These promises, often grandiose in nature, range from infrastructure development and social welfare programs to economic reforms and job creation.

While these pledges aim to capture the imagination and votes of the people, they come with a significant price—one that extends beyond the ballot box and into the daily lives of ordinary citizens, as well as the broader public and private sectors.

The allure of campaign promises

Political manifestos are crafted to inspire hope and to offer solutions to the challenges faced by the electorate.

They serve as a blueprint for the vision a candidate has for the country’s future.

In a developing economy like Ghana, where many citizens grapple with issues such as unemployment, inadequate healthcare, and educational challenges, these promises resonate deeply.

For many, the election period is a time of renewed optimism, with the belief that the incoming government will bring about positive change.

However, the cost of fulfilling these promises—or failing to do so—can have profound implications on the nation’s socio-economic landscape.

The economic impact on citizens

For the average Ghanaian, the economic cost of political promises is often felt most acutely in the form of fiscal policies that are implemented post-election.

When a new government comes into power, it may need to raise revenue to fund its campaign promises, which can lead to increased taxes, levies, and tariffs.

This, in turn, affects the cost of living, with prices of goods and services often rising, thereby straining household budgets.

Moreover, unfulfilled campaign promises can erode public trust in political institutions.

When citizens perceive that politicians are not delivering on their promises, it can lead to disillusionment and cynicism, which may manifest in lower voter turnout in future elections and reduced civic engagement.

The public sector: Burdened or benefited?

The public sector often bears the brunt of implementing the promises made during election campaigns.

Large-scale infrastructure projects, such as road construction, housing developments, and healthcare facilities, typically require significant government expenditure. While such projects can stimulate economic growth and create jobs, they also come with the risk of budget overruns, corruption, and mismanagement.