Renowned linguist and social commentator, Prof. Kofi Agyekum, has expressed deep concern over the current state of Ghana’s politics, highlighting a disturbing lack of truthfulness among political actors. According to Prof. Agyekum, the country’s electoral process has taken a perilous turn, with elections increasingly being treated as a life-and-death matter.
This sentiment echoes the pleas of Traditional ruler and Judge Mama Bobi III, who recently appealed to political parties to prioritize the general wellbeing of Ghanaians over personal gains. Mama Bobi emphasized that elections should not be a matter of life or death but rather a process that puts Ghana first.
Concerns Over Electoral Violence
Prof. Agyekum’s concerns are not unfounded, given the history of electoral violence in Ghana. The 2020 elections saw eight fatalities, and tensions remain high ahead of future elections. President John Dramani Mahama has urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to expedite investigations into these violent incidents, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in the electoral process.
Calls for Electoral Integrity
The importance of electoral integrity has been a recurring theme in Ghanaian politics. President Mahama has consistently called for transparency and fairness in elections, highlighting the need to address grievances and ensure that the democratic process is not compromised. This message has been echoed by other stakeholders, including the National Peace Council, which has organized post-election conferences to promote constructive dialogue and peace-building.
Rebuilding Trust
A recent study revealed that nearly 7 million registered voters chose not to participate in the 2024 elections, citing dissatisfaction with governance failures and economic hardship as major reasons. This highlights the need for political actors to rebuild trust with the electorate and address the underlying issues driving voter apathy.
As Ghana moves forward, it is clear that the country’s politics require a renewed commitment to truth, transparency, and accountability. By prioritizing electoral integrity and promoting constructive dialogue, Ghanaians can work towards a more stable and peaceful democratic process.