A nationwide survey by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has shown that President John Dramani Mahama continues to enjoy majority public approval, with 58.9% of Ghanaians expressing satisfaction with his performance 18 months into his administration.

The poll, conducted in May 2026 and covering more than 1,000 respondents across all 16 regions, forms part of the IEA’s regular assessment of presidential job performance.

The findings come against the backdrop of notable improvements in key economic indicators between January 2025 and April 2026.

During the period, inflation reportedly declined from 23.5% to about 3.4%, while the Ghanaian cedi appreciated by 26% against major international currencies.

The Bank of Ghana also reduced its policy rate from 27% to 14%, with commercial lending rates falling from approximately 32% to 20%.

Additionally, Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio is said to have declined from 61.8% at the end of 2024 to 45.3% by the end of 2025. These developments have reportedly contributed to sovereign rating upgrades by Fitch, Moody’s, and S&P.

According to the IEA poll, 58.9% of respondents approve of the President’s performance, while 28.4% disapprove and 12.8% expressed no opinion.

Although approval remains a majority, it reflects a decline from 68% recorded in December 2025, suggesting growing public expectations that macroeconomic gains should translate more directly into improved living conditions.

Among those who approve, 73.5% cite improvements in the economy as their primary reason, while 16% point to road infrastructure, and 2.7% mention energy and electricity performance.

The survey also highlights key concerns among those who disapprove of the administration.

About 30.9% of disapprovers cited the economy, while 29.9% pointed to electricity supply challenges.

The poll was conducted shortly after a period of intermittent power outages in May 2026, which affected households and businesses in parts of the country.

Corruption was cited by 19.1% of respondents who disapprove of the government’s performance, reflecting continued public demand for stronger anti-corruption enforcement and accountability measures.

The IEA noted that while the government’s macroeconomic record remains a major source of public approval, many Ghanaians are yet to feel the full impact of economic recovery in terms of cost of living, job creation, and household income.

The survey suggests a broadly supportive but increasingly demanding electorate, with citizens expecting tangible improvements in daily economic conditions.

Overall, the findings indicate that President Mahama maintains solid public backing at 58.9%, driven largely by perceived economic stabilization and infrastructure development.

However, rising expectations around living standards, energy supply, and corruption remain key areas shaping public sentiment.