A former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, has attributed the country's economic challenges to the rampant corrupt activities within various public institutions.

Speaking at the Constitution Day Public Lecture at UPSA on Monday, Dr. Afari-Gyan noted that such practices could deconsolidate the democracy of the country.

"There are clear signs of deconsolidation of our democracy. Over the years we have become poorer as a nation and as a people due mainly to pervasive corruption particularly in the public sector and public life. Unfortunately, some of our key institutions are becoming institutions of dubious integrity," he said on Monday.

The former EC Chairperson pointed out that there was a disturbing trend of election losers alleging manipulation and refusing to accept results.

This, he suggested, could be a result of the failure to instill democratic principles widely across society.

Dr. Afari-Gyan expressed concern over the general lack of predictability in social life, which he deemed a disincentive to proper behavior.

"Some people will say that these are perceived and not real ailments of our democracy, but that doesn’t change the picture at all because for purposes of trust and confidence in public institutions and public office holders, perception is as important as reality," Dr. Afari-Gyan remarked, underscoring the significance of public trust in maintaining a healthy democracy.

Dr. Afari-Gyan pointed out that these challenges have led to numerous calls for constitutional amendments which he indicated would be a very long process.