December elections to go into second round – Lecturer predicts

Dr Bossman Afari, a Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana has predicted that the 2012 presidential election is likely to go into a second.

The lecturer is basing his predictions on the type of candidates the two main political parties, National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP), have selected to run for the elections on their tickets.

The opposition NPP unanimously retained its 2008 Presidential candidate, Nana Akufo-Addo and his running mate, Dr. Mahumudu Bawumia, to run for the elections.

Following the death of President John Evans Atta Mills, the ruling NDC have been forced to accept John Drahamani Mahama as its Presidential candidate.

While the party awaits a delegates' congress to affirm John Drahami Mahama's flagbearership, his choice of Vice President and running mate has stirred up debates as to viability to the NDC's electoral fortunes.

President John Mahama has selected Bank of Ghana Governor, Mr Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur for the vacant Vice Presidential slot and is awaiting Parliamentary vetting and approval to assume office.

Speaking on Election Headquarters on Joy FM Thursday, Dr Bossman Afari said considering the qualities all four candidates are bringing to play, he “certainly think(s) that second round is not unlikely, we are likely going to see a second round in this particular elections.”

He, however, advised the NDC to “make the effort to sell” Amissah Arthur to the Ghanaian populace because, “many people do not know him” and are not familiar with his track record.”

According to lecturer, “if the NDC wants to make an impact, he must be leading some campaigns,” because “…people are also looking forward to a Vice President who can takeover as President when the need arises.”