Ghana’s political landscape is deeply entangled in a web of manipulation, a phenomenon that has become almost endemic. The two dominant political parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have mastered the art of emotional manipulation, using it as a tool to sway the sentiments of unsuspecting citizens. This tactic is particularly pronounced during election cycles, where promises are made with fervour, only to be abandoned or distorted once power is secured. This culture of political manipulation has not only eroded public trust but has also significantly hindered the nation’s socio-economic progress.
As Ghana commemorates its 68th independence anniversary, it is evident that the country’s development trajectory falls short of its potential. While Ghana is often hailed as a beacon of democracy in West Africa, the reality on the ground tells a different story. The nation’s growth has been stunted by a recurring cycle of political deceit, where leaders say what the electorate wants to hear but do the exact opposite once in office. This disconnect between rhetoric and action has created a governance gap, leaving citizens disillusioned and development projects half-baked or abandoned.
One of the most damaging consequences of political manipulation is the misallocation and mismanagement of limited resources. Funds that could be channelled into critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation are often diverted to serve narrow political interests. This misappropriation is not solely the fault of politicians; it is a systemic issue that involves a broader network of actors, including civil servants, technocrats, and even members of civil society. These groups, either through complicity or negligence, enable the cycle of corruption and inefficiency to persist. For instance, technocrats who are supposed to provide expert guidance often bend to political pressure, while civil society organizations sometimes fail to hold leaders accountable due to partisan affiliations or lack of resources.
The impact of this manipulation extends beyond economics. It has fostered a culture of short-termism, where policies are designed to win immediate political favour rather than address long-term developmental challenges. This approach has left Ghana with a legacy of uncompleted projects, from abandoned roads and hospitals to poorly implemented social interventions. The lack of continuity between administrations further exacerbates the problem, as new governments often discard the initiatives of their predecessors, regardless of their merit, in favour of their agendas.
Moreover, political manipulation has deepened societal divisions. By exploiting ethnic, religious, and regional loyalties, politicians have created a polarized environment where national unity is sacrificed for electoral gains. This divisiveness not only undermines social cohesion but also distracts from pressing issues such as unemployment, inequality, and climate change. The youth, who make up a significant portion of the population, are particularly affected. Many feels alienated from the political process, viewing it as a game played by elites for their benefit.
To break free from this cycle, Ghana must embark on a path of genuine political and institutional reform. Strengthening accountability mechanisms, such as independent anti-corruption bodies and a more vigilant media, is crucial. Civil society organizations must also rise above partisan interests and advocate for the common good. Additionally, there is a need for greater civic education to empower citizens to demand transparency and hold leaders accountable.
Ghana’s potential is undeniable. With its rich natural resources, vibrant culture, and resilient people, the country has all the ingredients for sustained growth and prosperity. However, realizing this potential requires a collective effort to exorcise the demons of political manipulation and prioritize the nation’s development over narrow political gains. As Ghana marks another year of independence, the call for change grows louder. The question is whether the nation’s leaders and citizens will heed it.
Article by Alim
