Professor Stephen Kweku Asare, Democracy and Development Fellow in Public Law and Justice at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has strongly criticized the normalization of extreme partisanship, sycophancy and hypocritical political culture in Ghana.

The renowned civil and constitutional activist, in a statement, issued a clarion call for introspection and reform in the country’s political culture.

“The South Korean MPs united to unanimously reject the President’s declaration of martial law. If this were Umuofia, the MPs would likely endorse it along partisan lines, and the people would shift blame to the Constitution for granting the President excessive power.”
Professor Stephen Kweku Asare, D&D Fellow in Public Law and Justice at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana)

Professor Asare’s analysis centred on what he described as the “evil triplets” of partisanship, sycophancy, and hypocrisy, which he contended are the true obstacles to progress in the country.

While acknowledging the imperfections in the Constitution, he argued that these deeply entrenched cultural vices exacerbate the nation’s governance challenges.

“We can support a law, fully aware of its potential to harm the nation, simply because it is presented by ‘our’ president. Similarly, we can oppose a beneficial policy solely because it originates from ‘their’ president”.
Professor Stephen Kweku Asare, D&D Fellow in Public Law and Justice at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana)

This blind allegiance to political camps, according to him, erodes the capacity for critical and constructive engagement on national issues.

A Culture of Favor-Seeking and Double Standards

Professor Asare further critiqued the pervasive culture of sycophancy among public officials, who, he said, often prioritize currying favour with the President or other powerful figures over providing honest and constructive feedback.

He also decried the hypocrisy that sees leaders vocally opposing corruption, abuse of power, and nepotism while in opposition, only to embrace or perpetuate these same vices upon assuming office.

“Many decry corruption, abuse of power, and nepotism when in opposition, only to turn a blind eye or even partake in them when they ascend to power,” he stated, underscoring the cyclical nature of these practices in the country.

A Call for Reform and Unity

Professor Asare’s remarks carry a sense of urgency, warning that unless the “evil triplets” are buried, they will continue to “strangle our progress.”

He emphasized the need for collective action and a cultural shift to prioritize the national interest over partisan and personal gains.

“We must find a way to get rid of these evil triplets before they find a way to destroy Umuofia,” he cautioned, urging citizens and leaders alike to adopt a more principled and accountable approach to governance.

Concluding his critique, Professor Asare turned his attention to the controversial issue of the lack of parliamentary representation for the people of Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi (SALL).

As he always does, he labelled this situation as the “cardinal sin” of the 8th Parliament, further illustrating the systemic failings that undermine democratic inclusivity and accountability.