Speaking at the "Beyond Electrocracy" webinar series hosted by the Center for Alternative Politics and Security West Africa, Benjamin Offei-Addo, a financial expert, media practitioner, and student of law, delivered a compelling analysis of Ghana’s political landscape.

The event, held on November 22, 2024, via Zoom, explored the theme, "Beyond Ghana's 2024 Elections: Business as Usual or a New Pathway Towards People-Centered Politics?"

In his remarks, Mr Offei-Addo emphasized that the fate of Ghana’s democracy lies not in elections but in the deliberate choices and actions of its citizens. “2024 is not the magical turning point we might hope for. It is the choices we make and the deliberate actions we take as citizens and as a state that will drive change,” he said. 

Offei-Addo highlighted the pressing need for accountability mechanisms to hold duty-bearers responsible. Citing the erosion of trust in governance, he drew parallels between Ghana’s political system and market structures, critiquing what he called a growing “political monopsony.” He explained, “When there is a unity of purpose, aspirations, and actions among citizens, the political class cannot exploit us. Fragmentation allows politicians to perpetuate an ‘electocracy’ where the will of the people is secondary to power dynamics.” 

He further criticized the centralized nature of Ghana’s governance, noting that the President’s power to appoint Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) undermines grassroots accountability. “The constitution centralizes power, disconnecting governance from grassroots concerns,” he said. 

Offei-Addo did not spare Ghana’s media landscape, describing it as heavily polarized and susceptible to political influence. He proposed reforms, including empowering the National Media Commission (NMC) to appoint directors to media organizations to ensure independence and prevent political owners from dictating narratives. 

On constitutional reforms, he advocated for decentralization, calling for the election of MMDCEs and independent bodies to oversee critical appointments. “We must check presidential powers and establish non-partisan bodies for appointments to offices like the Special Prosecutor and the Supreme Court to rebuild public confidence,” he urged. 

Throughout his address, Offei-Addo stressed the importance of unity and active civic engagement in building a resilient democracy. “Power concedes nothing without a demand,” he quoted, adding, “If we don’t make that demand, the political duopoly will continue to sell us the same product, just in different packaging.” 

He urged Ghanaians to prioritize accountability, demand constitutional reforms, and actively participate in governance beyond the ballot box. “Elections may mark the start of new administrations, but they are not the end game. Ghana’s democracy can only transition from business as usual to people-centred politics if citizens stand united and uncompromising in their demands,” he concluded.