By Regina Kwapong
A call to action has been sounded for Ghana to reevaluate its democratic practices. The current state of politics is hindering development efforts and has created a crisis of loyalty among public officials, who prioritise party allegiance over serving the state.
A former UN Senior Governance Advisor, Prof. Baffour Agyeman-Duah, has expressed concern about Ghana’s democracy and development, citing crises in both areas. This revelation came during a phone call discussion about the Afrobarometer report on corruption on Joy News.
He said, “In my humble view, we are having some crises in our practice of democracy, and this is the first time I’m saying this. It’s not only on democracy, but also on our development.”
The Afro-barometer Report 2024 sheds light on corruption’s impact on democracy in Africa. According to the report, corruption is getting worse, and it’s a major concern for Africans, undermining their support for democracy.
According to Prof. Baffour, Ghana’s democracy seems to be regressing instead of advancing, highlighting the need for a serious review.
Furthermore, he urged Ghana to take a hard look at its democratic practice, as the current system seems to be hindering progress instead of fostering development.
“The country’s politics have become increasingly polarised, with a duopoly that’s stifling growth and undermining democratic principles,” he posited.
