Ghanaians go to the polls on Sunday for what is expected to be a closely contested election.

As the first African country to gain independence, Ghana was seen as a model for political and economic reform in Africa.

But many people feel Ghana has failed to live up to its original promise, blaming corruption and mismanagement for stunting its development.

Can these elections help return Ghana to prosperity and restore its standing within Africa and around the world?

If you're in Ghana what will influence the way you vote? What do you look for in a political leader? Do you feel Ghana is losing influence on the global stage or is her star still shining brightly? Send us your views.

If you would like to join BBC's Africa Have Your Say to debate this topic LIVE on air on Wednesday 3 December at 1600 GMT, please include a telephone number. It will not be published. You can also send an SMS text message to +44 77 86 20 20 08. link Published: Tuesday, 2 December, 2008, 13:13 GMT 13:13 UK