Mahama Enjoys 67% Approval as Majority of Ghanaians Express Specific Optimism – Global InfoAnalytics

Introduction

In a political landscape often defined by volatility, the latest data from Global InfoAnalytics presents a clear picture of stability and public confidence in Ghana. The December 2025 National Tracking Poll reveals that President John Mahama maintains a robust 67% approval rating, a figure that has remained steady despite the natural fluctuations of political discourse. This sustained approval is not an isolated metric; it is mirrored by a broader sentiment of national optimism, with a majority of citizens believing the country is on the right track.

This comprehensive analysis delves into the intricacies of the Global InfoAnalytics poll, examining not just presidential popularity but the underlying economic and social factors driving public sentiment. From budget approval ratings to perceptions of corruption and the rising influence of the youth demographic, this article provides a pedagogical breakdown of the current Ghanaian political climate.

Key Points

Background

The Global InfoAnalytics December 2025 National Tracking Poll serves as a critical barometer for the political environment as the year draws to a close. Conducted across all 16 regions of Ghana, the survey sampled 13,495 respondents across 83 constituencies, ensuring a representative view of the national mood.

The Methodology and Scope

By covering diverse geographical areas, including regions traditionally aligned with the opposition, the poll offers a granular view of political allegiance. The stability of the data—where approval ratings and national optimism have remained largely unchanged from the previous quarter—suggests that current public sentiment is not a fleeting reaction to recent events but a reflection of sustained perceptions regarding the government’s performance.

Analysis

The data provided by Global InfoAnalytics offers a multi-dimensional view of the Ghanaian electorate. It moves beyond simple popularity to explore the drivers of that popularity and the structural shifts occurring within the political system.

Presidential Support and Cross-Regional Appeal

President Mahama’s 67% approval rating is significant not only for its magnitude but for its breadth. While support is predictably highest among National Democratic Congress (NDC) supporters at 93%, the poll reveals a strong crossover appeal. Notably, 69% of floating voters approve of the President’s performance. This demographic is often the decisive factor in election outcomes, making their support a crucial asset.

Perhaps most striking is the approval rating among New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters, which stands at 28%. In a highly polarized political environment, retaining nearly a third of the opposition’s base indicates a level of consensus or satisfaction that transcends strict party lines. The overall disapproval rating stands at 24%, a marginal increase of 2%, indicating a stable opposition base.

Economic Drivers of Optimism

Economic performance is frequently the primary determinant of electoral success. The poll indicates that the government’s economic messaging is resonating. The 2026 Budget, presented by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, received a positive reception, with 66% of citizens expressing satisfaction.

This macroeconomic approval is translating into microeconomic optimism. A majority of respondents (56%) reported that their personal financial situation had improved over the past year. Furthermore, looking ahead to 2026, 70% of citizens expect their standard of living to improve further. This alignment between government policy satisfaction and personal economic optimism creates a powerful narrative of progress.

Governance and Anti-Corruption Efforts

Perceptions of governance have also seen a positive shift. The poll records a significant milestone: 60% of respondents now believe the government is doing enough to combat corruption, up from 58% in the previous quarter. Additionally, 56% believe the state of corruption is improving, a stark contrast to the 17% who feel it has worsened. This suggests that anti-corruption initiatives are gaining public traction.

Similarly, the government’s handling of illegal mining (galamsey) received cautious approval. Nationally, 56% of citizens believe the government is doing enough to address the issue. Even within mining communities, 43% believe the situation has not deteriorated under the current administration, suggesting that efforts to coordinate a response are being acknowledged.

Demographic Shifts: The Rise of the Youth Vote

One of the most profound findings in the poll is the demographic composition of the electorate. Gen Z and Millennials now constitute nearly 78% of the voting population. This shift is reshaping political priorities, with 64% of voters expressing a preference for younger leadership. This data point underscores the growing importance of youth engagement and policy focus in Ghanaian politics.

Partisan Identification Trends

Party affiliation data shows a slight realignment. The NDC leads with 41% support, despite a minor dip, while the NPP has seen a decline for the third consecutive period, now standing at 26%. The floating voter category has seen a slight increase to 19%. Educational breakdowns reveal an interesting trend: the NDC holds a significant advantage among tertiary-educated voters, while the NPP performs best among those with no formal education, though the margin in the latter group is narrowing.

Practical Advice

For political analysts, campaign strategists, and engaged citizens, the Global InfoAnalytics poll offers several actionable insights:

Understanding the Floating Voter

With floating voters at 19% and showing a 69% approval rating for the President, this group is critical. Political messaging should focus on economic continuity and governance reforms to maintain this support. Ignoring this demographic could be detrimental in future elections.

Catering to the Youth Demographic

With 78% of the electorate being Gen Z or Millennial, policy formulation must prioritize issues relevant to younger generations. The strong public support for constitutional reforms—such as limiting campaign periods to 120 days and extending presidential terms—reflects a desire for efficiency and modernization that appeals to this demographic.

Leveraging Economic Sentiment

Since 70% of citizens expect their living standards to improve in 2026, the government and economic stakeholders have a window to reinforce confidence. Transparency regarding the implementation of the 2026 Budget will be essential to convert this optimism into tangible economic activity.

FAQ

Conclusion

The December 2025 Global InfoAnalytics poll paints a picture of a Ghana that is largely optimistic and satisfied with the current direction of the country. President Mahama’s steady 67% approval rating is bolstered by positive perceptions of the economy, anti-corruption efforts, and a forward-looking national mood. While partisan divisions remain evident, the data suggests a government that enjoys broad cross-regional and cross-demographic support. As the nation looks toward the future, the rising influence of the youth vote and the public’s appetite for structural reform will likely continue to shape the political landscape.