As the 2024 elections draw near, Ghanaians are increasingly becoming vocal about their concerns, particularly regarding the manifesto unveiled by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

When The Independent Ghana visited Madina Constituency in Greater Accra, residents expressed deep scepticism about the promises made by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), with many citing economic hardships as the basis for their doubts.

Madam Comfort, a shoe seller at Madina Goil filling station, was unequivocal in her criticism. "All that he said are lies. Because even Akufo-Addo has disappointed us. He didn't fulfil any of the promises he gave us; it is all lies," she said.

Mr. Anokye, a fellow trader, dismissed Dr. Bawumia's claim of being merely a "driver's mate" in the administration, arguing that the Vice President is complicit in what he described as "wicked" policies.

"Every policy implemented under his watch is proof that none of the promises, such as scrapping the e-levy, are anything more than stillborn ideas," he stated.

Commuter Mr. Meyers took a more measured stance but still questioned the leadership needed to guide the country. "I have no problem with Bawumia, but Ghana needs a strong leader who will be able to build us," he remarked.

Wahab, a belt seller, shared his doubts, pointing to the rising cost of goods. "Under Mahama's government, a belt at wholesale was 10 cedis. Now, under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government, we buy at 20 and sell at 30," he noted.

Aunty Grace, a self-proclaimed staunch NPP supporter, expressed her disillusionment with the government's unfulfilled promises, vowing never to vote again. "As I have always said, never would I vote in any election in Ghana again. The deception has become too much, too much deception. Now we have 'shine-our eyes,'" she declared.

However, Lady Gagabelieves Dr Bawumia is capable of fulfilling all his campaign promises.

She empathises with the 'disappointed' in the Akufo-Addo -Bawumia led, attributing the government's failure to his flagship programme i.e the Free SHS policy

Dr. Bawumia's manifesto includes promises to abolish the e-levy, remove VAT on electricity if still on the books, scrap the emissions tax and betting tax, and fully automate Tema Port.

He also pledged to align port duties at Tema with those at Lome Port, introduce flat-rate duties for spare parts importers, and reduce the cost of data by working with industry players to establish clear policy guidelines.

As the election season progresses, whether these promises will sway voters or if the scepticism heard in places like Madina will dominate the public's perception remains to be seen.