As Ghana approaches the 2024 elections, a growing sentiment of mistrust towards the two major political parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has become increasingly evident among the populace.
This sentiment was vividly articulated by Mr. Aidoo, Gilbert Arhinful, a respected lecturer at the Department of Political Science of the University of Education, Winneba, in a recent interview with the Vaultz News.
Mr. Arhinful reminisced about the early days of the Fourth Republic when Ghanaians transitioned from various forms of governance, including military rule and civilian autocracy, to a democratic system. This shift brought a sense of euphoria and hope, as citizens believed that democracy would ensure freedom, accountability, and development. The expectation was that democratic institutions would act as buffers, protecting the interests of the people and promoting national welfare.
“As we speak today, some of our leaders themselves would admit, including the former president Mahama, that the court has been packed with party faithful. And all of these instances tend to affect the trust that Ghanaians can repose in these institutions.”
Mr. Aidoo, Gilbert Arhinful, Lecturer at the University of Education, Winneba
This erosion of trust is not limited to inter-party relations but extends within the parties themselves. The level of intransigence is alarmingly high, contributing to a climate of distrust and disillusionment.
“The point is that for any system to work, we must have a certain level of trust,” Mr. Arhinful noted. The perception of a lack of impartiality and fairness has significantly eroded public trust in these institutions.
Mr. Arhinful highlighted the dire consequences of this mistrust. “If the people are not happy with the system, one thing is that they tend to shy away from participating in the process, which is going to affect the level of participation and the interest of the people in the system and the process.”
Mr. Arhinful further noted that this disengagement is not only detrimental to the democratic process but also poses a threat to the country’s security and stability. Incidents of violence at registration centers and during elections, where individuals carry weapons for self-protection, underscore the dangerous implications of pervasive mistrust.
“There are a number of people who as we speak are undecided about which party to support. That’s to tell you what is going to happen if things are not done in a proper order, if it’s not changed for the better.”
Mr. Aidoo, Gilbert Arhinful, Lecturer at the University of Education, Winneba
In light of this, smaller political parties face an opportunity and a challenge. According to Mr. Arhinful, it is incumbent upon these parties to unite for a common purpose, providing a credible alternative to the disenchanted electorate.
Calls for Unity Amid Political Apathy
This sentiment is echoed by Alan Kyerematen, founder and leader of the Movement for Change. Mr. Kyerematen has been vocal about the need for a new political force in Ghana, criticizing the persistent blame game between the NDC and NPP which he believes has hampered the country’s development.
“For too long the blame game between the NDC and NPP has endured to the detriment of Ghana’s development. Today, the majority of Ghanaians have lost hope in our leadership and democratic system,” Mr. Kyerematen stated. He called on Ghanaians who are frustrated with the lack of progress to join the Alliance for Revolutionary Change.
“We are the only credible force that will fight for credibility, accountability, integrity, unity, and competence in leadership. We will work with every Ghanaian who has the capacity, will, and determination to transform Ghana. Together we will fight to build the Ghana we deserve.”
Alan Kyerematen, founder and leader of the Movement for Change
The appeal of movements like Mr. Kyerematen’s underscores the urgent need for a shift in Ghanaian politics. The erosion of trust in the NPP and NDC, coupled with increasing voter apathy, highlights a critical juncture for the country. As Ghanaians grapple with disillusionment, the call for a new political direction becomes ever more pressing.
The growing mistrust among Ghanaians towards the NPP and NDC is a significant concern as the 2024 elections approach. Mr. Arhinful’s insights and Kyerematen’s calls for change reflect a broader desire for a political landscape that prioritizes accountability, unity, and genuine progress. Whether this will lead to a substantive shift remains to be seen, but the current climate suggests that Ghanaian voters are yearning for a credible alternative that can restore their faith in the democratic process.
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