Social Media Sentiment Favors John Mahama Over Bawumia

In the lead-up to the 2024 presidential elections in Ghana, a recent report from IMANI Africa’s Public Understanding and Literacy for Sentiment and Election (PULSE) indicates that former President John Mahama is enjoying a more favorable reception on social media compared to Vice President and NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

The Periodic Social Media Sentiment Analysis Report, published in December 2023, reveals that a higher percentage of Ghanaians express positive opinions about John Mahama, standing at approximately 20% of social media posts mentioning him and the NDC. On the other hand, only 9.74% of posts mentioning Dr. Bawumia or the NPP were reported as positive.

Despite the NPP and Dr. Bawumia receiving four times more mentions on social media than the NDC and Mahama, the sentiment analysis portrays a more favorable public opinion towards the latter. This information becomes significant as both candidates are considered frontrunners in the upcoming presidential elections.

The study highlights the dynamics of public sentiment, shedding light on the social media landscape’s role in shaping opinions about political candidates in Ghana. The report underscores the importance of understanding the digital discourse as an integral part of the political landscape in the country.