Billboards of ‘Mahama’s receipts’ pop up in Accra
In recent weeks, the cityscape of Accra has become a canvas for political messaging, as billboards featuring quotes and statements attributed to prominent political figures have surfaced in various parts of the Greater Accra Region. The billboards serve as a platform for both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to revisit past remarks made by their leaders, sparking a controversial public discourse.
The trend began with billboards showcasing tweets from Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia during the NPP’s campaign trail leading up to the 2016 general election. These billboards prominently displayed statements made by key figures within the NPP, such as Vice President Bawumia and then-candidate Nana Akufo-Addo. The quotes ranged from promises of economic reform to criticisms of the opposition National Democratic Congress.
One notable tweet featured on the billboards dated December 2, 2015, stated, “NDC has resorted to increasing taxes under the economic difficulties they created. An NPP Government will do differently.” Another resurrected a tweet from Nana Akufo-Addo in October 2016, alleging that only a select few had prospered under the then-government, specifically mentioning members of the President’s family and inner circle.
The initial billboard, erected around Danquah Circle in late November 2023, faced an untimely demise, being pulled down by unknown individuals. This incident fueled speculation and accusations on social media, with some suggesting government involvement in suppressing critical messages.
However, instead of stifling the discourse, the removal of the billboard seemed to escalate the situation. Subsequently, more billboards emerged across Accra, reigniting discussions about unfulfilled promises made by Vice President Bawumia, who is reportedly gearing up for a presidential run in the upcoming elections.
In response to the billboards featuring NPP leaders’ tweets, a counter-campaign emerged, this time focusing on former President John Dramani Mahama. These billboards, referred to as ‘Mahama’s receipts,’ present media reports of statements made by the NDC’s flagbearer during his tenure as president or vice president.
The quotes attributed to Mahama include controversial statements such as “Ghanaians complain too much” and “I am not a politician to put money in your pockets.” Another billboard draws attention to the issue of “No chalks in public schools,” accompanied by a picture of Mahama.
The Impact on Voter Choice in 2024:
As both major political camps employ these unconventional strategies to market their messages, the billboards have become a focal point of public attention. The controversies and counter-campaigns have sparked discussions about the credibility of past promises and the accountability of political leaders.
With the December 2024 elections on the horizon, the impact of these billboards on voter choices remains uncertain. The city of Accra has become a stage for political narratives, and the electorate will be closely watching how these campaigns influence their decisions in the upcoming polls.
