The Negativity Of Democratic Governance In Africa, For That Matter Ghana.

It's important to note that democracy is a complex and multifaceted concept, and its effectiveness varies depending on a country's specific circumstances and implementation. While democracy has its benefits, it also faces challenges in most African countries, including Ghana. Modern democracy is alien to the African setting and this supports the assertion that democracy isn't the best system of government for Africans.

Political instability is one of the negative effects of practicing democracy in Africa. In some cases, the transition to democracy can be accompanied by political oscillation, as different factions vie for power, which can lead to political conflict and cause mayhem. It's not for nothing that many countries in the West of Africa and other parts of the continent are witnessing rampant political convulsions recently. Many African leaders have an appetite for political power. Therefore, they often adulterate their constitutions to create room for longer terms in offices to the displeasure of the suffering masses.

Socioeconomic factors can't be left out when mention is made of the demerits of modern democracy in Africa. Many African countries face significant socioeconomic challenges, such as poverty, absence of resources, inequality, etc. which can make it difficult for democracy to thrive and deliver tangible improvements in living standards among citizens. It will be near impossible for democracy to strive in a country where the majority of its citizens can't afford three square meals in a day. In Africa, therefore, poverty is an enemy of the fullest implementation of most democratic principles to the benefit of the people in the country and Ghana can't be excluded from political anguish.

Another negative effect of modern democracy in Ghana is corruption. Indeed, corruption can be a significant issue in some democracies, including Ghana, which can undermine the effectiveness of democratic institutions and hinder development. Corruption and its related elements are pervasive of late and this makes the act of corruption look acceptable in society. However, this isn't to say such acts of corruption don't exist in countries where democracy is flourishing. But the extent to which corrupt acts are carried out is what makes the difference appalling in Ghana.

Ethnic and tribal dichotomy serves as another impediment to the effective implementation of modern democracy in Africa. Many African nations have diverse populations with ethnic and tribal divisions. Democracy can aggravate these divisions if not managed carefully, leading to conflicts and political fragmentation. In Africa, for that matter Ghana, people attach tribal affiliation to everything they do. Hence, modern democracy can't survive where tribal preference is higher and considered paramount in our daily engagement. Ethnic and tribal divisions lead to the formation of families and friends governments that often disregard competency and glorify nepotism and partiality in political appointments, recruitment, and even in the sharing of the national cake.

Furthermore, weak infrastructure and institutional capacity can hinder the effective functioning of democratic institutions, including elections and governance. Most of our institutions lack what it takes to independently implement certain democratic principles without political interference or even external force from the so-called donor countries. Apart from the weak institutions that obstruct the smooth implementation of democratic principles, it is imperative to point out that external powers can exert undue influence on African democracies, affecting their ability to make independent decisions. What is even more pathetic is the fact that these external forces which are advanced economically at times coerce the less privileged ones to accept policies that are alien to their cultural and societal norms. The issue of LGBQT+ and how the West and America are pushing its acceptance down the throats of most less-privileged African countries is a common example of how the external force operates.

In conclusion, It's worth noting that these challenges do not imply that democracy is inherently unsuitable for African countries like Ghana. Many African nations have made significant progress in democratisation and governance. However, addressing these challenges often requires careful consideration of each country's unique context and a commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting good governance. Therefore, if Africa, for that matter, Ghana wants to achieve positive results in running a modern democracy, then, it's important to consider the above pointed mentioned and make sure the society is less corrupt, ethnic, and tribal-centered, do away with external influences, and allow the institutions to work freely.

Ghanaians are watching!!!!