A Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, has raised concerns about the state of Ghana’s electoral processes.
Prof. Gyampo expressed concern about the increasing influence of money in Ghana’s elections, stating that it is undermining the democratic progress made since independence. He described the current state of Ghana’s electoral processes as “nauseating,” with the highest bidder often securing victory.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, the President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Ghana Chapter, emphasized the need for a drastic change to avoid potential regrets for the country. Prof. Gyampo highlighted that the output of the electoral processes has nothing to do with the expression of the popular choices of the people. He pointed out that people are now emerging as elected through undemocratic means, simply because they were able to pay more money.
The concerns were raised in light of the proposal for the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to be elected along political party lines, following President Akufo-Addo’s decision to revoke the appointment of 24 District Chief Executives. Prof. Ransford Gyampo stressed that democracy in a developing country like Ghana must thrive to produce candidates who have what it takes to implement tangible solutions to the country’s problems.
The concerns raised by Prof. Gyampo shed light on the need for a transparent and fair electoral process in Ghana, without the undue influence of money and other undemocratic means. This raises important questions about the future of Ghana’s democracy and the integrity of its electoral processes, highlighting the need for reforms to ensure that the popular choices of the people are reflected in the outcome of elections.
