President John Dramani Mahama continues to enjoy majority public support nearly 18 months into his administration, with a new survey by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) placing his approval rating at 58.9 percent.
The nationwide poll, conducted in May 2026 across all 16 regions of Ghana, found that most respondents approve of the President’s performance despite a decline from the 68 percent approval rating recorded in December 2025.
The survey revealed that 28.4 percent of respondents disapprove of his performance, while 12.8 percent expressed no opinion.
The findings come against the backdrop of notable macroeconomic improvements since President Mahama assumed office in January 2025.
According to the IEA, inflation has fallen significantly, the cedi has strengthened against major currencies, lending rates have eased, and Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio has declined. The country's improved economic outlook has also been recognised by major international credit rating agencies.
Economy Emerges as Main Driver of Approval
The survey identified the economy as the dominant factor behind public support for the President. Nearly three-quarters of respondents who approved of his performance cited economic management as their primary reason.
The IEA noted that 73.5 percent of supporters credited the government’s handling of the economy, while 16 percent pointed to improvements in road infrastructure. Energy and electricity issues accounted for a much smaller share of positive responses. According to the report, the data suggests that government efforts to stabilise prices, strengthen the currency and restore investor confidence have become the administration’s strongest source of public goodwill.
Despite the positive ratings, the poll also highlighted concerns among those dissatisfied with the President’s performance.
Among respondents who disapproved, 30.9 percent cited economic challenges as their primary concern, indicating that many households are yet to feel the full benefits of the broader economic recovery.
Electricity supply emerged as another major issue, with 29.9 percent of disapproving respondents pointing to power challenges following temporary supply disruptions experienced in May.
Corruption was also identified as a concern by 19.1 percent of respondents, reflecting continued public expectations for stronger action in that area.
Public Support Remains Strong but Expectations Are Rising
The IEA concluded that while Ghanaians remain broadly supportive of President Mahama’s leadership, expectations are increasing as citizens look for macroeconomic gains to translate into tangible improvements in their daily lives.
The survey suggests that economic stability remains the administration’s greatest political asset. However, sustaining public confidence will depend on the government’s ability to address concerns around living standards, electricity reliability and governance while consolidating recent economic gains.
As Ghana continues its recovery journey, the latest findings indicate that public support for the President remains strong, but voters are increasingly focused on outcomes that directly impact households and livelihoods.
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