News

Back to the John’s; A look into Ghana’s democracy

Published

2 weeks ago

January 7, 2025

Spread the love

Ghana’s democratic journey, particularly highlighted by the leadership of Jerry John Rawlings, has been a complex narrative of transformation from military rule to a multi-party democracy.

Rawlings initially came to power through a coup in 1981 and led the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) until the reintroduction of multi-party democracy in 1992.

His transition from a revolutionary to a democratic leader is significant, as he won the presidency in the 1992 and 1996 elections under the newly formed National Democratic Congress (NDC), demonstrating a shift from his earlier stance against multi-party systems to embracing them when it became clear they were favored by the populace.

The discourse on Ghana’s democracy often revolves around the quality and integrity of its electoral processes. Ghana has conducted multiple elections since the re-establishment of democracy, with peaceful transitions of power between the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), indicating a level of democratic stability.

However, there have been criticisms regarding the independence of institutions like the judiciary and the Electoral Commission, with former President John Mahama recently voicing concerns that Ghana has become a “bad model of democracy” due to perceived lack of institutional autonomy.

Economically, Ghana’s democratic period has seen growth, with significant reductions in poverty and the emergence of a middle class, which has contributed to political stability by aligning voter interests more with economic development rather than ethnic or regional affiliations.

In terms of democratic practice, there’s an acknowledgment that while the formal structures of democracy are in place, the actual practice can be marred by issues like vote-buying, distrust in electoral processes, and the need for more transparent governance.

This reflects a broader critique where democracy in Ghana might be more institutional than participatory, focusing on government structures rather than engaging citizens in governance.

Ghana’s democracy has shown resilience and a degree of success in maintaining peace and electoral regularity, it continues to face significant challenges in ensuring that democratic dividends are felt by all citizens, with calls for deeper accountability and institutional reforms to truly empower the populace.

Up Next

Dignitaries present at the inauguration of President John Mahama as president of Ghana

Don't Miss

7-year-old boy survives 5 days in “lion-infested” game park in Zimbabwe after going missing

Click to comment

News

Mahama’s Security Overhaul: New Appointments Announced

Published

5 days ago

January 15, 2025

KSmylesGH

Spread the love

President John Dramani Mahama has recently announced new appointments to enhance Ghana’s national security framework.

Before his official inauguration, Mahama established a six-member interim team to manage national security issues. This team, effective from January 7, 2025, is led by Prosper Douglas Bani, a former Minister for the Interior. Other members include Lt. General Peter Augustine Blay (Rtd.), former Chief of Defence Staff, and Kofi Totobi Quakyi, former Minister for National Security, among others. This team was set to oversee national security operations until permanent appointments could be made.

After his swearing-in, Mahama has made several key appointments related to security. Prosper Bani has been tasked with leading the Interim Security Taskforce. Additionally, there are mentions of Kofi Boakye, Charles Kipo, and others in new security roles, indicating a comprehensive approach to reorganizing the security sector.

President Mahama has also emphasized addressing security issues in the Bawku region, promising key appointments this week to tackle the ongoing conflict. He aims to restore lasting peace in the area by prioritizing security concerns.

These appointments reflect Mahama’s commitment to enhancing national security, ensuring stability during the transition period, and addressing immediate security concerns. The inclusion of experienced professionals in these roles suggests an intention to leverage their expertise for effective governance and security management.

These actions align with Mahama’s broader agenda to streamline government operations and focus on key areas like security, which he highlighted during his campaign and in his first days in office.

News

President Mahama Embarks on Peace Mission in Bawku and Nalerigu

Published

5 days ago

January 15, 2025

KSmylesGH

Spread the love

President John Dramani Mahama embarked on a peace mission to Bawku and Nalerigu on January 14, 2025, aiming to address the long-standing conflict in these areas. His visit was part of efforts to engage with conflicting factions and key stakeholders to promote dialogue and foster lasting peace.

Mahama met with the Bawku Naaba, Zug-raan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, and the overlord of the Mamprugu traditional area, Nayiiri Bohagu Abdulai Mahami, to discuss security and peace initiatives. He also held meetings with top security chiefs in Accra before heading to Bawku, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to resolving the conflict.

President Mahama assured the residents of Bawku that his administration would prioritize their security concerns. He promised key security appointments within the week to address the ongoing crisis, underlining his commitment by stating that these new appointees would make Bawku one of their top priorities. This includes roles like the Minister of Defense, National Security Advisor, and others.

The visit has been viewed positively by some, with security analysts like Colonel Festus Aboagye (Rtd) suggesting that it sends a strong message to conflicting parties to exercise caution and prioritize peace. The National Peace Council also described Mahama’s visit as critical for achieving lasting peace in Bawku.

The peace mission comes in the context of recent events, including an attack on a truck in Walewale, which highlights the ongoing insecurity in the region. Mahama’s visit was also set against the backdrop of his campaign promises to resolve the Bawku conflict if elected, indicating a continuation of efforts to bring stability to the region.

This mission reflects a broader vision for a united Ghana, where disputes are settled through diplomacy and mutual understanding. However, the effectiveness of these engagements will depend on the follow-through of the promises made and the cooperation of all involved parties.

News

John Mahama’s Regional Minister Nominations

Published

5 days ago

January 15, 2025

KSmylesGH

Spread the love

President John Mahama has recently nominated 10 individuals for the position of regional ministers, submitting their names to Parliament for approval. The nominees includes;

Northern Region: Ali Adolf John
Oti Region: John Kwadwo Gyapong
Volta Region: James Gunu
Eastern Region: Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey
North-East Region: Ibrahim Tia
Ashanti Region: Dr. Frank Amoakohene
Upper East Region: Akamugri Donatus Atanga
Ahafo Region: Charity Gardiner

These nominations are part of Mahama’s strategic governance rollout for his new administration. The list of nominees was shared across various media platforms, indicating a broad communication strategy to inform the public and stakeholders about these key appointments.