Mahama Secures 68% Approval Rating One Year into Presidency – IEA Poll

President John Dramani Mahama continues to enjoy strong public support one year after returning to office, according to a nationwide opinion poll conducted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA).

The survey, carried out in December 2025 across all regions of Ghana and involving more than 1,000 respondents, found that 68% of Ghanaians approve of the President’s job performance. Only 22% expressed disapproval, while 10% said they had no opinion.

In a press release dated February 11, 2026, the IEA described the approval rating as an indication that President Mahama has maintained a solid base of public support despite the country’s ongoing socioeconomic difficulties.

“Public support for President John Mahama is high, with a 68% job approval rating,” the report stated.

Rising Cost of Living Dominates Public Concerns

Despite the favourable rating, the survey revealed widespread anxiety about the cost of living. Seven out of ten respondents (71%) said they are very concerned about the rising prices of food and consumer goods, while an additional 20% reported being somewhat concerned.

Overall, 91% of Ghanaians indicated at least some level of concern about increasing prices, underscoring the economic pressures facing households nationwide.

Unemployment Tops National Issues

When asked to identify the most pressing issue confronting the country, 46% of respondents cited unemployment. Illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, ranked second at 30%, reflecting public alarm over environmental degradation and water pollution.

Corruption was mentioned by 9% of respondents as the country’s most important issue, while 8% pointed to the general state of the economy.

President Mahama was sworn into office on January 7, 2025, amid high public expectations following a challenging economic period marked by high debt levels, currency depreciation, inflation, and rising unemployment.

According to the IEA, while several key economic indicators appear to be trending in a positive direction, significant structural and socioeconomic challenges remain.

The institute concluded that although Ghanaians are grappling with economic hardships, they remain largely hopeful about President Mahama’s leadership and expect urgent action to address unemployment, environmental concerns, and the rising cost of living.