The impending change in Ghana’s political landscape, with John Dramani Mahama poised to return as president, has sparked discussions about the role and responsibilities of the incoming administration and the newly constituted Parliament. Dr. Rasheed Draman, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), has emphasized the crucial need for consistent scrutiny and accountability, urging Member of Parliament Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to maintain the same vigilance towards the Mahama administration that he exhibited during the Akufo-Addo presidency. This call for unwavering oversight underscores the importance of checks and balances within a democratic system, regardless of the party in power. Dr. Draman’s statement highlights the concern that a dominant parliamentary majority might lead to complacency or abuse of power, and stresses the necessity of rigorous parliamentary engagement to ensure transparency and good governance.
The context for this discussion is the substantial majority secured by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 9th Parliament, exceeding two-thirds of the seats. This significant majority provides the NDC with considerable legislative power, raising concerns about potential unchecked authority. President-elect Mahama has addressed these concerns, offering assurances that the NDC will not misuse its parliamentary dominance and emphasizing a commitment to collaborative governance. He has pledged to consult with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and other stakeholders at every stage of the decision-making process, highlighting a commitment to consensus-building rather than imposing the will of the majority. This pledge aims to allay fears of a one-party rule and underscores the importance of inclusivity in Ghana’s democratic process.
Mahama’s emphasis on consultation and consensus-building is a crucial element of his approach to governance. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, he has stated that no single political party can effectively transform Ghana without cooperation from all sectors of society, including religious and civic groups. This recognition underscores the importance of diverse perspectives and the need for a collective effort to address the nation’s challenges. By engaging with various stakeholders, the incoming administration aims to build a broader base of support for its policies and initiatives, fostering a sense of shared ownership and responsibility.
The President-elect’s commitment to an open-door policy and ongoing consultation with religious and community leaders further reinforces his commitment to inclusive governance. His assurances to the National Chief Imam, a highly respected figure in Ghana, demonstrate his intention to seek guidance and wisdom from influential figures beyond the political sphere. This gesture signals a recognition of the moral and spiritual dimensions of leadership and the importance of drawing on the wisdom of respected community leaders.
Dr. Draman’s call for sustained parliamentary scrutiny aligns with the broader principles of democratic accountability. While Mahama’s assurances of collaborative governance are welcome, the effectiveness of these commitments will be judged by the actions of the incoming administration. A strong and vigilant parliament, actively holding the government accountable, is essential to ensure that these promises translate into tangible practices. The ability of the opposition to effectively scrutinize government policies and decisions is a critical component of a healthy democracy.
The transition of power in Ghana presents an opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions and practices. While the incoming administration has expressed its commitment to inclusive governance and collaboration, the ultimate test will be its ability to uphold these principles in practice. The active participation of civil society organizations, the media, and a robust parliamentary opposition will be crucial in ensuring transparency, accountability, and the continued development of Ghana’s democracy. The vigilance and scrutiny advocated by Dr. Draman are not meant to be adversarial but rather serve as essential safeguards to ensure that the government remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of all Ghanaians. The incoming administration’s success will ultimately be measured by its ability to deliver on its promises and govern in a manner that reflects the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.
