The Failure of Multi-Party Democracy in Ghana: Parliament’s Neglect of Social Issues and Fiscal Responsibility

The Failure of Multi-Party Democracy in Ghana and Parliament’s Neglect of Social Issues and Fiscal Responsibility Are espoused in this feature by Akwasi Adusei-Amofah.

Ghana’s multi-party democracy, once seen as a model for political stability in Africa, is facing significant challenges that threaten its integrity and effectiveness. Among these challenges is parliament’s failure to address pressing social issues, such as the proliferation of fetish money rituals on television and social media, alongside its irresponsible fiscal behavior, including hastily approving loans and secretly passing laws to increase their own salaries.

Proliferation of Fetish Money Rituals

In recent years, Ghana has witnessed a troubling increase in the promotion and normalization of fetish money rituals, particularly through television and social media platforms. These rituals often involve individuals engaging in dangerous and superstitious practices in the hope of acquiring wealth and success. Despite the clear societal harm caused by these rituals, parliament has neglected to enact comprehensive legislation to regulate or prohibit them. This failure reflects a fundamental disregard for the well-being and values of the Ghanaian people.

Irresponsible Fiscal Behaviour

In addition to its neglect of pressing social issues, Ghana’s parliament has demonstrated a concerning lack of fiscal responsibility. This is evident in its tendency to hastily approve loans without adequate scrutiny of their purpose or the quality of work funded by them. Such reckless behavior poses a significant risk to Ghana’s economic stability and future prosperity.

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Moreover, parliament’s clandestine passing of laws to increase their salaries without considering the state of the national coffers exacerbates concerns about fiscal mismanagement and lack of accountability. This self-serving action further erodes public trust in democratic institutions and perpetuates a cycle of political elitism and corruption.

Implications for Ghana’s Democracy

The failure of Ghana’s multi-party democracy to address pressing social issues and uphold fiscal responsibility has grave implications for the nation’s democratic governance. It undermines public confidence in democratic institutions, weakens the rule of law, and exacerbates social inequalities.

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Furthermore, the lack of transparency and accountability in parliamentary decision-making processes fuels a sense of disillusionment and alienation among the Ghanaian populace. This growing disenchantment poses a significant threat to the stability and legitimacy of Ghana’s democratic system.

Toward Democratic Renewal

Addressing the failure of multi-party democracy in Ghana requires a concerted effort to prioritize the interests of the people and promote transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. Parliament must enact legislation to regulate harmful practices like fetish money rituals, while also implementing rigorous oversight mechanisms for fiscal management and expenditure.

Civil society organizations, media outlets, and concerned citizens have a vital role to play in holding elected officials accountable and advocating for democratic renewal. By demanding transparency, promoting ethical governance, and actively participating in the democratic process, Ghanaians can work towards building a more inclusive and responsive democracy that serves the interests of all citizens.

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In conclusion, the failure of multi-party democracy in Ghana to address pressing social issues and uphold fiscal responsibility reflects systemic shortcomings that undermine the nation’s democratic governance. By fostering transparency, accountability, and civic engagement, Ghanaians can pave the way for a more resilient and effective democratic system that upholds the principles of justice, equality, and the common good.

By Akwasi Adusei-Amofah