Author: Issaka Iddrusu.
Democracy, touted as a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people,” loses its integrity when power and resources are confined to a privileged few. Ghana, celebrated as a beacon of democracy in West Africa, now finds this principle under threat during the administration of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. A critical examination reveals how the consolidation of power among family, friends, and close associates has undermined the nation’s democratic ideals, leaving many Ghanaians feeling excluded and betrayed.
Nepotism and the Privileged Few
One of the most contentious aspects of Nana Addo’s government has been the widespread allegations of nepotism. From the onset of his administration, the President appointed family members and close associates to key government positions, raising serious concerns about fairness and transparency.
Among the most notable examples are the appointments of Nana Addo’s relatives to strategic positions:
1. Edward Akufo-Addo (Brother): Edward was appointed as the Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited, a critical institution in Ghana’s aviation sector.
2. Ken Ofori-Atta (Cousin): As Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta has overseen the nation’s economy amidst numerous allegations of mismanagement, including the controversial Agyapa Royalties deal and skyrocketing public debt.
3. Gabby Otchere-Darko (Cousin): A powerful figure within the government, Gabby has wielded significant influence over policy decisions without holding an official government position, reinforcing perceptions of shadow governance.
4. Daughters of Nana Akufo-Addo: The President’s daughters have reportedly received government contracts and preferential treatment in various business dealings. For example, one of his daughters, Edwina Akufo-Addo, was linked to a major COVID-19 procurement controversy involving Frontiers Healthcare Services.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s Family Connections
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has also faced scrutiny for leveraging his position to benefit close relatives. Key instances include:
1. Yakubu Bawumia (Brother): Yakubu, a businessman, has been involved in multiple government contracts, with allegations of favorable treatment due to his relationship with the Vice President.
2. Mumuni Bawumia (Brother): Mumuni was appointed to a strategic position in the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), sparking debates about meritocracy versus favoritism.
These appointments and actions exemplify how access to power and privilege is concentrated within a small circle, undermining the principle of equal opportunity.
The Impact of Privilege on Governance
The influence of family and friends in Nana Addo’s government has contributed to several governance challenges:
1. Erosion of Meritocracy: By prioritizing family and friends, qualified and deserving Ghanaians have been sidelined, leading to inefficiencies and a decline in public confidence in state institutions.
2. Corruption Allegations: The concentration of power within a privileged few has fueled corruption scandals. From inflated contracts to questionable procurement practices, these issues have drained public resources and deepened economic hardships.
3. Public Discontent: The blatant nepotism and perceived lack of accountability have alienated many Ghanaians, fostering a sense of exclusion and hopelessness about the democratic process.
Economic Inequality and Elite Capture
The monopolization of power and resources extends beyond appointments to economic opportunities. Key government contracts, public funds, and business deals often benefit the same privileged circle. For example, controversies surrounding the allocation of COVID-19 funds and other national initiatives reveal a disturbing trend of wealth concentration.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which left many Ghanaians struggling to survive, became an opportunity for the political elite to enrich themselves. Contracts for testing and procurement were awarded to entities with links to powerful families, sidelining local businesses and raising ethical questions about governance priorities.
Restoring True Democracy
To restore the credibility of Ghana’s democracy, urgent reforms are needed:
1. Independent Oversight: Strengthening institutions like the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the Office of the Special Prosecutor to investigate and prosecute cases of nepotism and corruption.
2. Transparency in Appointments: Establishing clear, merit-based criteria for public appointments to ensure fairness and competence.
3. Public Participation: Creating platforms for citizens to actively engage in governance and demand accountability from leaders.
4. Ethics Legislation: Implementing laws to curb conflicts of interest and prevent family members of top government officials from unduly benefiting from state resources.
Conclusion
Democracy loses its legitimacy when it becomes the preserve of a privileged few. The case study of Nana Addo’s government highlights the urgent need to uphold the principles of inclusivity, equity, and accountability in governance. Ghana’s democratic journey depends on ensuring that power and resources are accessible to all, not concentrated among a select few. Only through collective vigilance and reform can the promise of democracy be realized for every Ghanaian.
FULL NAME: ISSAKA IDIRISU
EMAIL ADDRESS: IDIRISU.ISSAKA56@GMAIL.COM
CONTACT: 0244636309 – 0240272011
POSTAL ADDRESS: MD 1942 MADINA-ACCRA
GPS ADDRESS: GM-003-9749
POSITION: FOUNDER AND CEO
INSTITUTION: HASKEE INSTITUTE OF ECONOMICS AND DEVELOPMENT
